Goalball: China´s debutants win men´s gold, women´s silver at Paralympics

Source: Xinhua | 09-15-2008 14:40

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Hosts China, the debutants at the Paralympics, became the biggest winner by claiming a gold and a silver in the men's and women's goalball tournament respectively at the BIT Gymnasium on Sunday.

Players of China celebrate their victory during the awarding  ceremony for the men's goalball final at the Beijing 2008  Paralympic Games in Beijing, China, Sept. 14, 2008. China  defeated Lithuania 9-8 and won the gold medal.(Xinhua Photo)

The men's final between China and Lithuania was the most exciting and most incredible match. Facing the world champions, China rallied from 6-2 behind to edge the rivals 9-8 in the end.

Lithuania showed their supremacy from the very beginning and kept their 6-2 lead at halftime. China tried very hard to narrow the gap to 7-6. In the last minute of the match, a goal added for Lithuania almost dashed China's hope.

However, the miracle came with only 40 seconds to go when China's star thrower Chen Liangliang brought down the house to score twice for a tie.

Furthermore, a penalty throw was awarded to China in the last seconds and Yao Yongquan sealed the win with a beautiful throw.

China's players celebrate their victory after winning the men's  goalball final at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing,  China, Sept. 14, 2008.(Xinhua Photo)

The game was described by the Lithuanian coach as a movie and the happy end went to China.

China's coach Zhang Yong said it was really a thrilling duel, as well as an excellent game. "The Lithuanian players are good, but our players are more outstanding," he said.