KUALA LUMPUR - Selangor is in its own class after defending the AirAsia National Youth League-Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) 2018 title by dominating the men and women category on the final day of the tournament on Dec 23.
The final round, which saw the team using a team format resulted in Selangor beating Penang 3-2 in the men's category followed by a 3-1 women's squad that also topped Penang.
Selangor earned the first point through Muhammad Shaqeem Eiman Shahyar, who easily faced Teh Jin Hong 21-18 and 21-10 before Penang rose to double their points by Goh Boon Zhe-Tan Yi Han and Low Eu Cong.
Boon Zhe-Yi Han won on Mohd Nor Firdaus Azman-Khew Han Yang 16-21, 21-19 and 19-21 while Eu Cong easily overcome Han Yang 21-6 and 21-8.
Selangor then leveled points after Jimmy Wong-Muhammad Zulhairi defeated Chee Yik Shen-Ooi Yi Yong's 18-21, 21-15 and 21-18 pair.
The singles player, Chua Jin Yang emerged from the Selangor title after giving away points after defeating Goi Zi Chyan 21-13 and 21-12, securing the second consecutive title.
Meanwhile, in the women's category, Selangor rise from 1-0 behind after R.Kasturi lost 12-21 and 17-21 to Tan Zhing Yi in the opening match.
Couple V.Dharshinie-Loh Zhi Wei had to work hard before reaching Lim Sze Jin-Tan Xin Zone 21-10, 20-22 and 21-16 to give Selangor the first point.
Selangor's turn lead 2-1 through K.Letshaanaa's 21-5 and 21-6 win over Gan Wan Yan before Lai Zi Ying-Teh Won Quin's pair gave a tearful eye by beating Tan Mei Xin-Teh Yi Young 21-19 and 21- 5.
As champion, Selangor brought home a prize of RM20,000 while Penang brought home a prize of RM15,000.
Speaking to reporters, head coach of Selangor, Danan Jaya said the hard work throughout the tournament and the focused on displaying the best action without thinking about winning is the key to the team's success.
"We are already expecting a fierce rivalry so we are well prepared to defend the championship. We also emphasize the players not to be too hopeful but have to work if they want to become champions, "he said.
