December 03, 2006	Sunday	Ziqa'ad 11, 1427

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DOHA, Dec 2: Pakistan's superior skiils, strength and experience proved too hot for Japan who were beaten 34-16 in the opening match of the kabaddi event here at the 15th Asian Games on Saturday.

Pakistan, fielding their captain Muhammad Akram as the first raider, scored their first point as he tagged out a player to give his team a definite edge over the rivals.

Pakistan's defence proved too strong for Japan who only managed six points in the first half as opposed to Pakistan's 23.

In the later stages of the second half Japan's coach Keijun Itoh called for a time out to change tactics.

Japan then resorted to faster pace of the game and showed more aggression, scoring ten points in the session with last six coming in the dying minutes of the match.

Pakistan's attack slowed towards the end but they still managed to outplay the Japanese by showing superior technique. Pakistan's strongest raiders were Muhammad Akram, Nasir Ali, and Wajid Ali.

For the losers, Takeshi Kozu, Terukazu (captain),Ryoki Nishioka and Suga Yoshinori played well in patches.

Pakistan’s coach Mohammad Mohsin later said that a win in the Games opener was a huge boost for the team. “No matter how strong or weak the opponents are, claiming a win in the beginning is very essential to have a good start,” he emphasised.

Mohsin added that each match of the tournament was equally important and urged the players to give their best to keep the team in medal contention.

Pakistan will play its next match against Iran.—APP