Wang Liqin and Tie Yana, who defeated O Su Yong/Ryom Won Ok of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea 2-0 early in the morning, advanced to finals after winning an all-Chinese semifinal match 2- 0 over Liu Guozheng and Niu Jianfeng.

South Korean pair Park Sang-Joon and Ryu Ji-hye beat Chinese Taipei's combination Chiang Peng-Lung and Chen Chiu-Tan 2-0 in the other semifinal.

In the first set, Wang and Tie had problems dealing with Ryu Ji- Hey's serves and fell behind 0-3, but they quickly levelled the score at 4:4.

They strengthened attacks when receiving the Ryu's serves again and led 15-8 before the South Korean pair pulled even to 15-15.

When the score deadlocked at 18-17, Wang's serves showed its power and the Chinese pair scored three straight points to take the set 21-17.

There were less swings in the second set in which the Chinese duo led all the way to 14-10. Then they had a 7-1 run to wrap up the title 21-11.

"Mixed double title is the most difficult one for us in all seven events but we got it." said Zang Yuying, coach of Chinese women's team.

Choi Yonung Il, coach of South Korean women's team, said they were happy with second place.

"We couldn't expect more. There are singles and doubles events and we hope to win a gold medal in the following days."

Ryu Ji-Hye, South Korea's top women paddler, also expressed her determination to a better performance in other events. "I couldn't say I am satisfied with my performance today. I wish I will have better result in women's singles and doubles events."

(People's Daily 08/28/2001)