Thailand record first SEA Games win

The Thai side were under the pressure to produce a good result against the lowly Cambodia following a disappointing display in the 2-1 loss to defending champions Malaysia on Wednesday, which sparked fierce criticism in the public.

It seemed only a handsome win against the opponents deemed the weakest in the group would appease the fans. Fail to do so, it only heap more pressure on them ahead of the final two matches against hosts Indonesia and Singapore, the other two top-tier nations in the region.    

The Thais bidding to reclaim the title after a run of eight consecutive victories ended in the previous Games in Laos started the game against the opponents who propped up the group without a point in predictable style, dictating the play from the opening whistle.

With Naruphol Ar-romsawa restored into the side after shaking off his injury, Thailand’s play looked more cohesive, with the Muang Thong United player pulling the string in the middle of the park.

Despite enjoying a large share of possessions, the Thais struggled to make inroads into the Cambodia defence. They had to wait until the 13th minute to have the first effort on goal when Ronnachai Rangsiyo had deflected shot easily saved by the keeper.

Five minutes later, the Thais, though, managed to open the scoring when Natarid Thammarodsophon cut in from the right just in front of the box before sending his angled shot into the back of the net. It was Natarid’s second goal in the tournament following his strike in the Malaysia match.

After taking the lead, the Thai side, though, were unable to build on the momentum from the goal as they barely put the Cambodians under the pressure.  Nevertheless, Ronnachai had two best chances, the second of which he fired his attempt straight at the goalie after running clear towards goal, to stretch the Thais’ lead.

The Thais’ first half display was hardly better than on Wednesday and they headed into the interval with only a 1-0 lead. After the restart, they came close to doubling the advantage when Natarid’s header crashed against the crossbar before Ronnachai’s follow-up went well over the bar.

The goal frame came to Cambodia’s rescue again midway through the second half when Adisak Kraisorn lashed a rising shot against the crossbar, with the keeper already beaten.

Despite performing far from their best, the Thais, somehow, were able to score three more goals in space of ten minutes to claim what seemed a flattering result.  

Thailand next face hosts Indonesia, who currently occupied the top spot with perfect record of two wins out of two, on Sunday.