Bangladesh managed to secure their first win in the 18th Asian Men’s Handball Championship beating New Zealand 31-24 in a play-off for the last two places in the 14- nation tournament in Sewon, South Korea, yesterday.

Bangladesh who finished 13th, earlier lost all matches including three in group phase and later three in play-off for place deciding matches.   

Bangladesh led the first half 16-10 against New Zealand who had to remain content with 14th and last place.  Imdadul Haque with seven goals was the top scorer for Bangladesh. Mehedi Hasan and Shakib Emon produced six goals each. Aston Lang netted nine goals for New Zealand.

The Bangladesh team will leave for home today after their first ever Asian Championship mission. Bangladesh Handball Federation general secretary Asaduzzaman Kohinoor told this correspondent that considering international match temperament and experience his team did not fare too bad.