Borneo Cup in Brunei brings Unity for football athletes

By Karyn

Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei Darussalam was the stage for the 5th Borneo Cup from December 1–4 2011.

Guest of Honour Pehin Dato Hj Haji Hazair, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports opened the five- a-side football tournament. The National Football association of Brunei Darussalam, as well as many of Brunei’s corporate and F&B sponsors, supported with cash donations, accommodation, transportation, plus refreshments and meals for the competition.

Eight teams, three each from Special Olympics Brunei and Special Olympics Indonesia, and two from Special Olympics Malaysia- competed for gold over four days. The teams were divisioned (a process whereby athletes in competitions are matched up according to their ability and age) into two groups and played in a round robin format. From there, the top two teams from each group qualified for the quarter finals.

Special Olympics Indonesia Berau (East Kalimantan) successfully defended their title and won the competition the second year running, beating Special Olympics Brunei-Team A 1–0. Third place went to Special Olympics Malaysia (Sabah), who beat Special Olympics Brunei-Team B 4–0. Ribbons of participation were also awarded to the unranked teams.

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