SSP, Lahiri lose but Asia keep lead

KUALA LUMPUR, January 13 

Asia made a strong comeback after trailing early to split Saturday’s EurAsia Cup foursomes with Europe as the hosts maintained a one-point lead over the defending champions going into the final day’s 12 singles matches.

Trailing 3 1/2-2 1/2 after Friday’s fourballs, Thomas Bjorn’s side quickly erased the deficit and then moved ahead by winning three of the first four matches at the Glenmarie Golf and Country Club.

However, the Arjun Atwal-captained Asia finished with a flourish by picking up the remaining three points to end the day 6 1/2-5 1/2 ahead, retaining their hopes of winning their first EurAsia Cup title at the third edition of the event.

However, India’s SSP Chawrasia and Anirban Lahiri, who had lost on Day 1, ended up on the losing side yet again.  They will meet Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrell Hatton, respectively, in their singles matches tomorrow.

An ecstatic Arjun Atwal said, “I have said from the beginning that this team is capable of winning and I have believed in them. They have shown that they have big hearts and a great game. They are all champions and they know how to do it. 

“I have been speaking to them, making them believe in themselves and to have fun and give their best. The young lads have been fantastic. One more day to go from here, it is very close.” — Agencies