The Korea Herald

피터빈트

S. Korean goalkeeper named best of Women's East Asian Cup

By KH디지털2

Published : Aug. 9, 2015 - 10:34

    • Link copied

South Korean goalkeeper Kim Jung-mi has been named the best netminder of the 2015 Women's East Asian Cup football tournament.

The regional competition wrapped up late Saturday with North Korea on top for the second consecutive edition, thanks to a 2-0 victory over South Korea at Wuhan Sports Center Stadium in China.

Japan defeated China 2-0 to earn its first victory of the competition. China closed out with three losses.

Kim, a 30-year-old veteran, blanked China 1-0 and made key saves in a 2-1 win over Japan. She did let in two goals against North Korea but still enjoyed a strong tournament. Kim was also named the top goalkeeper at the 2005 edition.

North Korean attacker Wi Jong-sim was selected the MVP of the tournament. She scored two goals, both coming in North Korea's 3-2 victory over China.

Her teammate Ra Un-sim finished as the top scorer with three goals, including one against South Korea.

Defender Kim Nam-hui, also from North Korea, was named the best defensive player.

With the country's second regional title in the bags, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a congratulatory message to the women's team, Pyongyang's state media reported Sunday.

The Korean Central News Agency said Kim commended the players on their "indomitable spirit," saying they successfully responded to the faith of the nation and its people.

The KCNA added that the players were excited to receive the leader's message and expressed their gratitude.

Separately, the Korean Central Television also reported on the North's victory and paid tributes to the players' "mental toughness, strong football skills and extraordinary unity. (Yonhap)