IT WAS a match of such magnitude that Singapore's National Day Rally - at least a part of it - was postponed last night. Yet, it was also a match where the outcome did not really matter.

Even with the entire nation behind the three paddlers - Li Jiawei, Wang Yuegu and Feng Tianwei - the gulf in talent was just too great between Singapore and China in the Olympic women's table tennis team final.

Yet, despite them losing 0-3, it did not matter a bit. The silver which the paddlers won - Singapore's first medal in 48 years - is as priceless as any gold in Beijing.

In recent years, the public is increasingly aware of Singapore's steady improvement in top sports events like the SEA Games, the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.

But this Olympics is a statement of intent - that not only is Singapore sports on the right track to success, but it also has the whole nation's support.

As more local athletes are reaching the qualifying marks for these events, Singaporeans are more eager to urge them towards sporting excellence.

Mr Alex Koh, a Singaporean businessman residing in Beijing, bought his entire office a large cake last Saturday.

'Just because Singapore are assured of an Olympic medal,' the 44-year-old said.

The table tennis singles competition begins today, and the paddlers will go into it knowing that Singapore is right behind them.

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