Asia Oceania Korfball Championship 2004
Christchurch - New Zealand 6-11 July 2004

Pioneer Leisure Centre - Lyttelton St - Spreydon

News Release - 7 July 2004 - Download PDF file

Day Two

Australia vs Chinese Taipei
The second day's matches of the 6th Asia Oceania Championships at Pioneer Stadium, Christchurch last night saw an intense match between the two traditional rivals, with the honours going to Chinese Taipei, holding out a strong second half fight-back by the Australians.

The teams spent the first chapter of the game trying to find position, and despite some prolonged attacks, particularly by the Asian champs, it was six minutes before they scored game on. Tempers threatened on three or four occasions and bodies were flying as Chinese Taipei built a solid 9-3 lead into half time and looked to be running away with it. As the third quarter progressed, though, the Aussies found their rhythm and clawed it back to just a one goal deficit ­ late arrival to the tournament Jessica May, coming off the bench and helping to bring her team back into contention. After top scorer Chien-Feng Hsu left the court with a severe leg bruising it appeared the Australians might cause a boilover, but an impressive long shot from Chih-Wei Chen gave Chinese Taipei the impetus they needed to finish the contest ahead by 13-10.

Why an Invitational Team? Unfortunately Indonesia, the original fourth team in this event, was forced to pull out late last week. This left a gap in the draw which has been filled by an Invitational Team. This team will consist of players from clubs in New Zealand, guests to New Zealand and a few players borrowed from the international squads. The Invitational team will play each night after the first game has finished.

Thursday's Games
Come along on Thursday night to watch New Zealand play Chinese Taipei at 6.45pm followed by Australia taking on the Invitational team at 8.15pm.

Spectators
Entry to the stadium to watch two games of international korfball is $5 a night or $15 for a season pass. Remember to pick up a programme at the stadium for information on how the game is played.