Kazakhstan Women — Uzbekistan Women: 35:20, Asian Games Women

Kazakhstan women's handball team beat Uzbekistan 35:20 at the Asian Games on Thursday evening. The result keeps both sides in the middle of the table, though it gives the hosts something to build on after a mixed run of form. For the visitors, it is another evening to reflect on.

Before kick-off Kazakhstan sat fourth with five games played, two wins and three draws from four points. Uzbekistan were sixth after four matches, one victory and three draws for two points. The recent results tell a story — Kazakhstan lost to South Korea and China in their last two outings before this, while Uzbekistan have struggled against the stronger sides in the tournament.

What stands out is the gap between the two performances. The hosts worked the channels and kept the ball moving, while the visitors looked disjointed. By then the score had opened up and there was nothing left to play for beyond the final whistle.

The result leaves Kazakhstan four points ahead of Uzbekistan in the standings. Both teams remain unbeaten, but the quality of results so far suggests the table will shift once the stronger opposition come into play.