Kota Kinabalu: Sabah women deaf futsal team came in second after losing 1-9 to Penang in the final of the 5th Malaysian Deaf Futsal Championship held at the RKS Sports Centre in Petaling Jaya on July 25.
They had earlier booked their place in the final with wins over Negeri Sembilan (3-1), Perak (3-1) and Melaka (2-0).
Sabah Deaf Sports Association President Spencer Soo Kok Heng was delighted with the team’s achievement in their maiden appearance in the National Championship.
“It was the first time we joined the competition and seven players were unable to make the trip because of fund issues.
“Despite only being able to feature eight players from the 15 allowed, finishing second was still a very good result.
“Furthermore, we need to take part in this tournament otherwise we can’t qualify for Sopma (Malaysian Deaf Sports Games) XXII 2025 to be held in Sarawak this October,” he said.
Meanwhile, the team was led by manager Azmi Saip with Lo Fook Fah as coach and the players were Mary Pamela Sylvester, Nicol Yeanna Peter, Sharolyn Arrabella Obil, Brigette Yasin, Fellen Tijin, Veaa Sterra Henry, Annzie Benedict and JC Ezra Grace Jerial @ Jiral.
