20 November 09, Yangon, MYANMAR: Singapore have missed out of making the semi-finals of the 2^nd boys U18 Asia Cup following a pulsating 1-1 draw with Japan. Needing a win to ensure qualification the Singapore boys were unfortunate to be ousted on mere goal difference in their quest for a semi-final spot. Japan will now progress to play against Pakistan in the semi-finals.

Singapore started their campaign on the right note downing Chinese-Taipei 3-0. However, they were beaten by Korea Republic in their second game by the same scoreline. Despite the defeat, the Singapore boys took solace from the fact that they were slowly bridging the gap between them and the hockey powerhouses of the region.

They thus went into their next game against host nation Myanmar looking for a handsome win. A 4-0 victory did the trick and set up an important clash against Japan for a place in the semi-finals. Needing only a draw to ensure their safe passage to the semi-finals, Japan approached the game cautiously. They managed to get the required result and send Singapore to the 5^th place playoff against India this Saturday 21 November 09.

Defending champions India are still smarting from their poor showing in the tournament and might take it out on the Singapore Boys, but this is also an opportunity for Singapore to put themselves on the map in the region with a good performance in that game-story by SHF