When Chen Long is at his best, his armour is impenetrable, nobody can find any kinks in it. The close G1, 23-21, I believe, already drained a fair bit of Lin Dan's energy, even more apparent in G2 and G3. It might be different had Lin Dan not played last week or at least had an early exit to save energy for this week.
Nice try by TTY. Maybe too late this game... although I am sure she's the perfect candidate to upset AY.
Nice rally...worth the length and technique and pushing around and all . Would've been equally happy if it went Akane's way too
Don't take this the wrong way, guys... is Akane the most non-traditionally, non-slim, non-tall female pro player in the circuit right now? (Like the other side of the spectrum to Sun Yu, or like how you'd compare Markis Kido and Mads-Pieler Kolding, if you will )? She reminds me of Mia Audina.. anyone else think so?
To me,Akane Yamaguchi and He Bingjiao are at the same level, with Akane's superior fitness advantage previaling
They're really fast, these youngsters! I think Tai is a little more poised to win but I'd be supporting Yamaguchi this game . Hit Hard Akane...don't hold back. make the smashes and your brilliant drops count!
I still think Lin Dan has the ability to penetrate Chen Long's defence and dismantle his stability but for that Lin Dan will need to improve further than he already has. We shall wait and see. Lin Dan will need to reflect on this match and figure out a plan how to not lose rhythm even when you slow down.
