Hoo–Lai bow out of Denmark Open after semi-final defeat
The Malaysian mixed doubles pair lost 21-13, 21-13 to China's top-ranked Feng Yan Zhe–Huang Dong Ping and will next compete in France.
Malaysia's Hoo Pang Ron–Lai Pei Jing missed a place in the Denmark Open final after China's Feng Yan Zhe–Huang Dong Ping beat them 21-13, 21-13 at the SJF Bank Arena.
The world No. 51 pair had been seeking to reverse their China Masters final defeat against the same opponents last month. Instead, the world No. 1 duo again proved too strong.
Pang Ron said the match underlined their need for greater patience and consistency, as even their well-executed shots drew stronger replies. He said they were still learning to solve problems during matches and react more quickly.
Although the Malaysians had prepared for the shuttle and drift conditions in Denmark, Pang Ron said their opponents adapted faster and were better prepared to change tactics.
Pei Jing nevertheless took encouragement from their progress through the tournament, saying their performances had improved between the opening match and the semi-finals. She identified mentality as the area where they had made the most progress and said they were proud of the result despite not reaching the final.
The pair will continue their tournament schedule in France before travelling to Germany to contest the Hylo Open.
