Floorballers proud despite drubbing

Singapore - They may have lost heavily to floorball powerhouses Sweden in the semi-finals, but Singapore's women's team are still proud of their achievements at the World University Floorball Championships (WUFC).

They pointed to pipping Japan, a country whose national team ranks five rungs above Singapore in the international rankings, to clinch the semi-final spot as the highlight of their campaign.

Captain Heng Hui-shan said: "We did exceptionally well and played our hearts out, so I am really proud.

"Our aim was to top our group, and it was a pleasant surprise to do it."

The Swedes proved a different class at the OCBC Arena though, as Singapore lost 0-23, never coming to terms with the speed and fluidity of a team from a country whose national team rank top globally.

Singapore coach Jaime Cheong revealed that the performances so far have been better than expected.

She also noted that Singapore had the home advantage as well as longer preparation time than the Japanese, which paid off in their decisive match last Friday which they won 6-2.

Cheong's charges will play Switzerland in the third-place play-offs. He said: "The Swiss are more experienced, but we believe we are on even ground and we will try our best."

As for the Swedes, they are setting their sights on claiming a fourth consecutive WUFC title.

Forward Sara Helin said: "We are excited for the final, and we are going to play some great floorball."

Meanwhile, the Republic's men's team defeated South Korea 8-1 to secure seventh place.

This article was first published on JUNE 22, 2014.
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