Thai team in dramatic comeback

Thailand's Under-23 side staged a dramatic comeback to draw 2-2 with Vietnam, which was enough to earn them top honours in the quadrangular Agribank Cup in Hanoi on Sunday.

Thailand were trailing 2-0 with only 20 minutes to go, but came back with two goals in quick succession from playmaker Datsakorn Thonglao and second-half substitute Thana Thanaburt to disrupt the party atmosphere in the packed venue.

Thanks to the goal difference, the result ensured the Thai team take home Bt1.4 million for finishing at the top of the standings, leaving the hosts in second tied on seven points after three games.

Tawatchai Sajjakul, the team manager, was full of praise for his side's spirited performance.

"After we conceded two goals, I felt disheartened. But my lads are worthy champions after they fought back from two goals down," said Tawatchai.

"I think this side is exceptional and I think the result proved that we are still the powerhouse in the region."

After watching the Thai team stage a great fightback, Virat Chanpanich, the assistant team manager, is convinced the side can expect good results in this year's Asian Games in Qatar in December.

Thai coach Chanwit Pholchivin was forced to adjust his side due to the absence of experienced striker Suthee Suksomkit, who left on Saturday to resume his club duty in Singapore's S-League. He opted to use 4-3-3 formation to put the emphasis out wide where there was supposed to be a chink in the hosts' armour, with Teeratep Winothai, Aekapan Intasen and Jakkrit Bunkam forming the attack.

The intimidating atmosphere in the full stadium seemed to have no effect on the visitors as Thailand started the game at a brisk pace. Inside the first 10 minutes, Chanwit's side had three opportunities to open the scoring.

The best chance fell to Aekapan, who took a shot inside the six-yard box only to see the ball come back off the far post to the keeper.

Thailand controlled the first-half and left Vietnam only one real opportunity from long range.

The Nation