THAILAND 1:5 CHINA

14 FEB. 2001 16:00 TST. SUPCHALASAI STADIUM

Report by: Tor Chittinand Bangkok Post

Thailand crash as Zhang hits hat-trick

Thailand, with nothing put pride to play for, seemed to lack confidence with a new-look defence in place and six minutes later the taller Chinese got their second when Zhang struck again with a header after a corner from Shao Jiayi.

In the 30th minute, China got their third from the head of Su Maozhen after Wu Chengying crossed from the left.

Thailand battled bravely in the second half and created several chances but on the hour China made it 4-0 when Zhang completed his hat-trick with yet another header.

Seven minutes later, Thailand pulled one back when a a 25-metre shot from Tawan Sripan took a slight deflection.

Nirut Surasiang, replacing Witthaya Nabthong, Tananchai Boriban and Kiatisak Senamuang all went close for the home side before China got their fifth in the last minute through Li Tie.

Thailand head coach Peter Withe said: "The Chinese had an advantage with their height. In the first half we we let them cross the ball whenever they wanted and they scored three from three crosses. "I made five changes to the team because we are looking at players for the World Cup qualifying rounds.

"We have missed the six players who are in Singapore but it is an opportunity for me to see the new players."Bora Milutinovic, the Chinese coach, said: "We are looking forward to playing against Sweden in the final."