LAOS SINK CAMBODIA WITH TWO STRIKES

PETALINF JAYA (Sept 10, 2001) – There was nothing left for Laos and Cambodia to fight for but their pride. Judging from the performances dished out by both sides, it was obvious that there far more than the game at stake.

The arch rivals fought to the final whistle but in the end it was Laos who emerged with full points after Phengta Phounsamay scored twice, once in each half of what was a action-packed game.

With the victory, Laos finish fourth in Group A with three points while Cambodia complete the fixtures with only one point from their dramatic draw against Myanmar.

For almost the first 30 minutes of the game, Laos and Cambodia exchanged fire at both goals. However, none of their efforts resulted in goals.

But all that changed on the half hour mark as Laos stunned their opponents with a solo run from Phengta Phounsamay, who managed to round the goalkeeper and fire into an open goal.

Cambodia, who had surprised everyone by holding Myanmar to a draw last week, tried hard to get back at their arch rivals but were unable to get through the Laotion defence.

Their one shot at goal was in the 38th minute but a well struck freekick from Kao Nisai was caught by Laos goalkeeper, Vannasith Thilavongsa.

The pace of the game never changed much after the interval. Both sides did their utmost to get the goals. But in the 75th minute, Laos were rewarded with a second goal from Phengta again.

The nippy striker picked up a fine pass from teammate Nitsavong Khounpachansy and easily turned it in to the delight of the small band of vociferous Laos supporters.

CAMBODIA: Ouk Mic, Sam El Nasa, Yous Bonarath, Peas Sothy, Meas Channa, Pok Chanthan, Chea Virath, Chea Makara, K.C. Bunrith, Rith Dika, Kao Nisai.

LAOS: Vannasith Thilavongsa, Anousone Khotsombath, Anan Tapsouvanh, Bounthavy Khamphouanh, Phengta Phounsamay, Nitsavong Khounpachansy, Souksavanh, Tippasong Muangchan, Sanasith Anolack, Oupasong Soliya, Visay Phaphovanine.