NEWS ARCHIVES 2000

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Thailand to hire Czech coach for 2001 SEA Games 09/06/00
Thailand plan to sign Czech coach Otkar Doldjs to take charge of their Southeast Asian Games football team which will be defending their title in Malaysia next year.

Bayern Munich far from their best 04/06/00

FC BAYERN Munich were clearly lacking in aggression, but they still managed to defeat Thailand 2-1 in a lacklustre game at the National Stadium yesterday.

Michael Wiesinger was the Bavarians' hero as he scored two goals while star midfielder Stefan Effenberg was sidelined. The latter seemed to be in Thailand only to manage his foundation, as he was not even dressed for the match.

Thailand, playing in front of a roaring crowd of 17,000, could not take advantage of their listless opponents despite many attempts.

Though England-based Kiartisak Senamuang scored one goal for the Kingdom before being carried out on a stretcher 10 minutes from half-time due to a sprained ankle.

"I must say that I am very disappointed with the score as I don't like to lose any game.

"We wasted tonnes of opportunities tonight," said Thailand's English coach Peter Withe.

The pressing game of the systematic Germans forced Thailand to make a lot of poor passes, causing resentment among their supporters. Nevertheless, the coach had some words of praise for the team.

"I'm satisfied with their form, especially the form of new player Amarit Eakwong," he said.

Team manager Wirach Chanpanich conceded the loss, saying: "They are so strong and very professional. But our boys' performance was acceptable.

"We can point out our drawbacks, for instance, toothless strikers, and will use it to improve the team for the Asian Cup."

Ottmar Hitzfeld, the German double champions' trainer, gave his best wishes to the Thai team for the Asian Cup in Lebanon in October.

"It's good for us to have a chance to test our young players. I hope Thailand will do well in the Asian Cup," said Hitzfeld.

Asked who was the most outstanding Thai player, the German was tactful, saying: "It's not fair to single out any one as the whole team played very well tonight."

However, the Bayern boss claimed, again without naming names, that a Thai forward had displayed good technique and suggested that he should try out for some German clubs.

Otherwise, the star will not be discovered, since Thailand is so far away for a scouts team from Germany, he added. Wiesinger showered praise on the Thai defenders saying that they did their jobs well and that he was lucky to be able to score.

Wiesinger's first goal came in the 24th minute. Slawomir Wojciechowski brought the ball up the left flank before crossing it inside.

Defender Dusit Chalermsaen tried to clear the danger, but only managed to send the loose ball to Wiesinger whose stinging 12-yard shot beat keeper Wirat Wangchan all ends up.

Thailand's equaliser came just four minutes later when Kiartisak beat the off-side trap, to receive a majestic pass from Therdsak Jaiman only to see his first attempt blocked.

However, the ball bounced back to the Thai skipper and he made no mistake.

Bayern came out even less aggressive in the second half, but Thailand looked distinctly more faded.

In the 78th minute, Thomas Strunz tackled Kiartisak, leaving the Thai ace sprawling.

While Withe was busy with the substitution, Frank Wiblishauser crossed in from the left side and Wiesinger rushed in to strike from 18 yards.

Meanwhile, Franz Beckenbauer has joined hands with the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) to establish a football school for children in Bangkok.

The Kaiser, president of the Germany's bid to host the World Cup in 2006, insisted that the Beckenbauer Football School had nothing to do with the bid.

"This football school is a joint venture between the Beckenbauer Foundation, FAT, and Football Association of Germany (DFB) and the German government.

"It is a long-term project and has no involvement with the World Cup bid. Even if we do not host it in 2006, the school will still be running," said Beckenbauer who is also the president of FC Bayern Munich.

The football school will share some area of the existing Nong Choke School on the outskirts of Bangkok.

"The project was initiated six months ago. Now everything is being shaped up.

"Both Bayern and German FA will provide instructors for the school. A detailed agreement on this will be signed later," said the German legend whose previous visit to the Kingdom in November was just a week after that of English legend Bobby Charlton, the ambassador of the England's bid to host the 2006 World Cup.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI AND WARARAK VORAVIDTHAYAKOM

The Nation

Bayern promise good show 2/6/00

Bayern squad arrives tonight 31/05/00

Tor Chittinand
Newly-crowned Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich will arrive in Bangkok tonight for Saturday's friendly match against Thailand.

The German stars will fly in from Shanghai on TG 665 at 9.55 p.m. and will provide a tough test for the Thai team which is building up for the Asian Cup finals in Lebanon in October.

Bayern arrive in China 30/05/00

The first stop of Bayern’s Asian tour is Shanghai, the port city where the German double winners will face Chinese League runners-up Shenghua Shanghai on Tuesday evening (at 7pm local time). A crowd of about 50,000 is expected at the national stadium.

However, local fans will be disappointed by the absence of Bayern’s international stars. Markus Babbel, Carsten Jancker, Jens Jeremies, Oliver Kahn and Mehmet Scholl are all with Erich Ribbeck’s German squad at their training camp in Majorca ahead of Euro 2000. Patrik Andersson and Bixente Lizarazu are with the Swedish and French squads, while Giovane Elber, Sammy Kuffour and Roque Santa Cruz are involved in World Cup qualifiers with Brazil, Ghana and Paraguay. Add to them Stefan Effenberg, Alexander Zickler and Hasan Salihamidzic who miss Tuesday’s game due to niggling injuries.

Hitzfeld will still have four internationals at his disposal in Paulo Sergio, Thomas Strunz, Michael Tarnat and Slawomir Wojciechowski, as well as established pros Thorsten Fink and Michael Wiesinger. However, the international situation means that there will be a chance for some of the club’s younger talents to impress: youth-teamers Sebastian Backer, Owen Hargreaves, Patrick M๖lzl, Antonio di Salvo, Stefan Wessels, Andrew Sinkala and Frank Wiblishauser are all on the tour.

Hot Thailand flog Hong Kong to claim berth 27/05/00

THAILAND'S Under-16 team yesterday thrashed Hong Kong 4-0 to top the group and clinch a berth in the Asian Youth Championship to be held in Vietnam from September 3 to 17.

In the last match of the Group 6 qualifiers at Thephassadin Stadium yesterday the Thais, who were more familiar with the weather conditions than their counterparts, dominated the show right from the start.

In the 13th minute Satid Mukkratok put the hosts ahead with a fierce 18-yard shot. The Kingdom, who put on a much better show than in the two previous games, extended their lead in the 29th minute when Piyachat Chinchai fired a 25-yard shot past keeper Leung Tak Chun, who looked on helplessly.

In the 36th minute Satid was once again in the spotlight, beating Hong Kong defender Lam Kin Fan to score his second goal of the match. A minute later the determined Satid completed his hat trick by booting home from close.

After the breather, the visitors tried hard to narrow the gap but found the Thai defence a veritable wall to break through.

In the 74th minute the national team was reduced to 10 when Tithipong Vivainthon, who was shown a yellow card earlier, was booked for kicking Ching Ho Yin. It was a golden opportunity for Hong Kong to pump in a few goals and restore their bruised pride. But their players were nowhere near the Thai goal.

Thailand, who went into a defensive shell, almost scored in the last minute, but Chakrit Buathong's header was blocked adroitly by Hong Kong's keeper.

Deputy Interior Minister Sonthaya Khunpluem, who is also the national team manager and who gave away Bt3,000 for each player as bonus, said he had plans to take the team to England in July to play a series of warm-up matches.

The team's advisor Wittaya Laohakul believes that the players would benefit by playing aboard and expects the team to clinch a berth in the World Youth Championship for the third time in a row.

In the other match of the day, Taiwan was on fire, trouncing underdogs Cambodia 5-0.

At the Thephassdin stadium, the national senior team blanked Athlete in Action of the United States 4-0 in a friendly match. The team will play another match against Bayern Munich on June 3.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Mighty Thailand wallop Cambodia 25/05/00

THAIVIETNAMESE Visist Chanvichanon scored two goals as the Kingdom blanked Cambodia 40 in the Asian Under16 Youth Championship qualifying tournament at the National Stadium yesterday.

Thailand crushed Taiwan 50 in the first match while Cambodia held Hong Kong 11.

Although the hosts dominated the game, they could score only two goals at the halftime. The Kingdom broke the ice in the 16th minute through Visist Chanvichanon. Two minutes before halftime, Weerayut Jitkuntod crossed from the left corner to Atthipol Poolsap who tapped the ball into the visitors’ net to put the team 20 ahead at the intermission.

After the breather, the Cambodians almost scored when Thai defenders let Phan Atol Teja slip through the defensive net but his fierce shot was parried over by the Kingdom’s goalkeeper, Chananut Kaewjan.

In the 69th minute, Thailand increased their lead through Satid Mukkratok, who sent a searing 25yard shot to beat the Cambodian goalkeeper Thai Sineth all ends up.

Five minutes later, Thailand were awarded a penalty kick when Som El Nasa brought down Visist in the penalty box. The striker made no mistake from the spot.

In the 78th minute, the Kingdom had a chance to extend their lead but Visist’s penalty kick was saved by Thai Sineth.

“Our boy have to improve their tactics and stamina as they would be taking on tougher rivals in the Finals in Vietnam,” said national team’s advisor Wittaya Laohakul.

The pitch at the National Stadium has become damp and muddy due to incessant rains, forcing the organising committee to change the venue to Thephaaadin Stadium for the matches today. Matches tomorrow and Saturday will, however, be played at the National Stadium.

Meanwhile, the English Football Association has invited the Under16 national squad to participate in Three Nations Championship scheduled for July 1116.

The Kingdom will take on Brazil in the first match and will meet England in the second match.

In the second leg of the playoff for a place in the Thailand Caltex Premier League next season, Royal Thai Navy beat Royal Thai Army 21 to clinch the berth with a 43 aggregate.

BY Komkrit Napalai

The Nation

FA Cup off the calendar 24/05/00

Suphap Thantiraphant
The organisers of the Caltex Premier League have decided not to stage the FA Cup this year in order to give the Thailand national team more time to prepare for two major tournaments-the Asian Cup finals in Lebanon in October and November's Tiger Cup in Thailand.

There have been years when the FA Cup has not been staged before because of a lack of sponsors.

It's slaughter of the lambs as Thais pound Cambodia 24/05/00

THAILAND Under-19 team yesterday crushed underdogs Cambodia 12-0 in the Asian Under-19 Championship qualifying round group seven encounter at National Stadium.

The Kingdom, led by six players who took part in the Under-17 World Youth Championship in New Zealand last year, controlled the game from the outset. Phaitoon Thaibma opened the floodgates for the hosts in the 13th minute, after connecting with a Narongchai Vachiraban pass.

Two minutes later, Narongchai, linking with Worawut Wangswat, booted home the side's second goal. Thailand received a free kick in front of the penalty box in the 19th minute and Narongchai sent a sizzling shot past the Cambodian wall. Phichitphong Choeich made it 4-0 two minutes later by lobbing the ball over Cambodian goalkeeper Chhom Veasna.

There was no respite for the Cambodian goalkeeper and the defenders as the rampaging Thais continued their demolition job with clock-like precision. Cambodian Lors Salako brought down Worawut in the penalty box and was red-carded for the offence. Sakda Joembdee, who took the resulting penalty, made no mistake.

Five minutes before half-time, Suriya Amatavet, who replaced the injured Worawut, made it 6-0 for Thailand.

After the breather, the Thais pumped in six more goals through Suriya (57th min), Narongchai (64th, 75th mins), Phaitoon (72nd min) and substitute Manoonsak Jantratip (87th and 90th mins).

National coach Chanvit Polcheewin, expressing satisfaction over the team's performance and was confident Thailand would top the group and qualify for the finals in Iran.

Cambodian coach Sok Sitha said his boys lacked international experience and hoped they would learn lessons from the defeat.

In another match, Hong Kong defeated Lao 3-0.

Meanwhile, organisers of the Thailand Caltex Premier League, International Management Group (IMG), yesterday announced the suspension of FA Cup this season because top Thai players are engaged in too many international events.

IMG were forced to make the decision as national team members will be playing in the Asian Cup Finals in Lebanon in October and the third Tiger Cup, which the Kingdom will host in November.

The suspension of the FA Cup means the Division A Championship will, in all probability, not be held this year because it is a one-match competition between the Premier League champion and the FA Cup champion.

However, IMG's managing director Colin Dunjohn said alternative arrangements such as inviting the Provincial League champion to play the Premier League champion would be made to retain the cup competition.

The Premier League will start on May 28, with defending champion Thai Royal Air Force taking on BEC Tero Sassana at National Stadium. FA Cup and Division A champion Thai Farmers Bank will clash with Bangkok Bank in another match. The proceeds from the sale of tickets will go to charity.

Premier League matches will be held twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays until July 8. The second round starts on July 15 and the season is due to end on August 19.

Rules and regulations remain the same as last season. Each team can field three foreign players in any match. The bottom-placed team will be relegated to Division I next season, while the team finishing eleventh in the Premier League will play the first runner-up of Division I for a place in the Premier League.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation
 

Thais off to a good start 23/05/00

Tor Chittinand

Thailand's under-16 team made a good start to the Asian Under-16 Championship qualifying round yesterday, thrashing Taiwan 5-0 at Suphachalasai Stadium.

The Thais went ahead in the 14th minute through Atthipol Poolsap and midfielder Sarawut Janthapan got the second with a tremendous shot. They went further ahead before half-time when Weerayut Jitkuntod scored in the last minute.

Therdsak delight for Thailand 19/05/00

THE Thai national squad, which is preparing for the Asian Cup in the Lebanon, scored an impressive 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan in a friendly match at Thephassadin stadium. Midfielder Therdsak Jaiman was the architect of Thailand's victory, scoring both the goals.

The driving rain made life difficult for players of both the sides but it was Thailand who dominated the proceedings in the first half. With the home crowd rooting for them, Thailand opened their account in the 28th minute. Thananchai Boriban passed from the right flank to Therdsak, who just trapped it and let go a flyer for a 1-0 lead.

Two minutes later, the home team could have enhanced the lead through Pipat Tonkanya, whose shot was blocked by Uzbek 'keeper Zabirov Georgiy. The ball bounced back into play and Thananchai collected the loose ball and drove it home only to be ruled off side.

Thailand continued to dominate even after the breather. In the 74th minute, Therdsak got an easy opportunity and he did not miss the chance.

"Although we had only three days of training, the players were very determined. However, we play very well in our country and badly when we go out. This has to change," said team manager Virach Chanpanich.

Virach said he was quite satisfied with the form exhibited by youngsters Anon Tonkanya and Thanongsak Prajakkata but added that Bangkok Bank's striker Krongpol Daoruang appeared nervous.

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nGermany's leading soccer club Bayern Munich, who will take on the Kingdom in a friendly match on June 3, yesterday announced their five-day schedule in the country.

The squad will arrive in Bangkok on May 30 and leave the Kingdom on June 4. Apart from playing in the Amstel Invitation Bayern Munich in Bangkok, the German Cup winners will hold a soccer clinic for local children. They will also visit a primary school in Chiang Rai. Captain Stefan Effenberg has donated DM2 million (Bt36 million) to the school.

Tickets for the match - priced Bt200, 400 and 600 - will be available from tomorrow at all eight branches of Star Soccer Shop (Fashion Island second floor, Panthip Plaza second floor, Seacon Square second floor, Discovery Centre third floor, Central Bangna third floor, Central Pinklao third floor, Central Rama III third floor and Central Ladphrao basement).

The Nation

Zico on way out at Huddersfield 17/05/00

Thai fan immortalises Beckham in Buddhist temple 16/05/00

© Reuters Limited 2000

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Soccer hero David Beckham has been immortalised by a fan in Thailand who carved a sculpture of the player inside a Buddhist temple at a spot normally reserved for angels. A one-foot high statue of Beckham covered in gold leaf has been placed at the foot of the main Buddha image in Bangkok's Pariwas Temple alongside about 100 other statues of minor deities.

"Football has become a religion and has millions of followers. So, to be up to date, we have to open our minds and share the feelings of millions of people who admire Beckham," said the temple's senior monk, Chan Theerapunyo.

Sculptor Thongruang Haemhod made the Beckham image to keep his memory alive for the next thousand years, Chan told Reuters. "This is contemporary art and we want the people of this and the next generation to know what was going on in the year 2000," Chan said. The image shows Beckham with a full head of hair - before his 300-pound crewcut, dubbed a "short, beck and sides".

Bankers to play Uzbekistan today 16/05/00

Tor Chittinand
Thai national players began three days of training yesterday before the friendly match against Uzbekistan on Thursday while the Bangkok Bank take on the visitors today.

Kiartisak to spearhead 13/05/00

LONDON-BASED Kiartisak Senamuang will lead the Kingdom once again in a special match against Bayern Munich, one of the leading clubs from Germany, on June 3.

The Football Association of Thailand yesterday named the 23-man squad to play friendly matches against Uzbekistan and Bayern Munich. However, the Thai ace, who is now struggling to get off the bench in Huddersfield's second team, will be able to make it only for the Bayern Munich match. Singapore-based players - Tawan Sripan and Tawatchai Damrong-ongtrakul - have been dropped from the team.

The matches are ideal tune-ups for the Kingdom, who are preparing to compete in the Asian Cup in Lebanon in October. Their match against Uzbekistan is scheduled for next Thursday.

Kiartisak is expected to reach Bangkok on June 1. The 23 probables have been asked to report at the Sport Authority of Thailand grounds on Monday at 3 pm.

"Performances in the match against Uzbekistan will be taken into consideration while picking the team for the match against Bayern Munich," said Virat Chanpanich, the team manager. "Almost all of the current crop of players are old faces from the Asian Cup qualifying matches. As not many tournaments were played in the meantime, we could not spot new talent. About defender Pattanapong Sripramote, he was left out as he committed many clumsy mistakes in the matches played recently."

The probables: Wirat Wangchan, Panuwat Tanganurat, Dusit Chalerm-saen, Kowit Foythong, Nirut Surasiang, Panupong Chimpook, Chukiat Noosalung, Choketawee Promrat, Therdsak Jaiman, Anuruck Srikerd, Thongchai Akrapong, Tananchai Boribal, Arnont Boonsukho, Kiartisak Senamuang, Pipat Tonkanya, Kwanchai Feungprakob, Seksan Piturat, Amarit Akewong, Tewes, Chanhom, Krongpol Daoruang, Somchai Han-iang, Apisit Khaikaew.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

In-form Iran stamp their authority in final 13/05/00

IN-FORM Iran yesterday underlined their supremacy when they ousted Kazakhstan 4-1 to clinch a successive World Futsal Championship Asian Qualifier title at the Nimibutr Gymnasium.

Hosts Thailand clinched a berth in the World Futsal Championship Finals, edging out Japan 8-6 in the third-place playoff.

Reigning champions and tournament hot favourites Iran reeled off four goals in the first-half. Wahid Shamsaee, scored a brace while the other two goals came from Reza Rezaei Kamal and Ahmad Bagh Bandashi. Glebov Aptyom scored the sole goal for Kazakhstan.

Both teams walk into the World Futsal Championship Finals, which is scheduled to be held in Gautemala from November 19 to December 3.

In the third-place playoff match, hosts Thailand looked shaky. Two minutes into the game, Japan earned a penalty when Thai goalkeeper Vilad Nomchareon brought down Kiyoshi Sagane. Yoshifumi Maeda made no mistake giving Japan a 1-0 lead. Thardsak Jaiman brought Thailand back into the game with an equaliser.

However, their jubilation was short-lived as a minute later, Japan took the lead through Osamu Nambata. Shinnosuke Kamimura then made it 3-1. A minute before half time, Thardsak scored his second goal. After the breather, Thardsak scored his hat-trick to help Thailand draw level at 3-3. Montree Phraepun struck home as Thailand gained a lead for the first time. But Kiyoshi Sagane and Yoshimasa Suda struck with vengeance.

In the 27th minute, Anucha Manchareon, trapped a pass from Thardsak and tapped home to put the Kingdom up. A minute later, Anucha stretched the lead to 7-5. The wily Osamu Nambata then intercepted a pass and unleashed a 14-yard shot to help Japan narrow the margin to 6-7. The Thais gave a sigh of relief when Nirut Surasieng put the final nail in Japan's coffin with a classic strike in the 33rd minute.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Futsal semifinals - Thailand 2000 11/05/00 

Source: AFC NET

Iran and Kazakhstan will contest the final of the Asian-Futsal Championship after both sides came through their respective semi-finals in very different fashion. Both sides have also booked their places at the World Futsal Championships in Guatemala later in the year as the top three sides in the continental qualify for the global tournament.

Kazakhstan had to come from a goal behind at the end of the first half to defeat Japan 9-6. Four goals from the thunderous right foot of Nurzan Doskeyev were instrumental in the former Soviet republic reaching the final.

The Japanese had controlled the first half but a high number of fouls eventually counted against them as the Kazakhs took charge.

Meanwhile, the defending Asian champions cruised through with an 8-2 win over Thailand in front of a vociferous home crowd.

The Iranians were in total control, leading by three goals at half time before adding a further five in the second period. But the biggest cheer of the night came when Thai international Therdsak Chaiman scored for his side, pulling one back for the hosts after the Iranians had claimed six.

Thailand will now face Japan in the third-place play-off, with the winner taking Asia's final place at the World Futsal Championships.

Results

Iran 8 (Ali Sanei Arani 4, Vahid Shamaee 8, 26, Mohammad Reza Hidarian 11, 34, Reza Rezaei Kamal 22, Babak Masoumi Daraki 25, Safarali Kazemi 38) Thailand 2 (Therdsak Chiaman 28, 39). HT: 3-0

Japan 6 (Yoshifuma Maeda 10, 18, Kenta Fujii 33, Takaaki Ichihara 34, 37, Osamu Nambata 37) Kazakhstan 9 (Yermek Tursanov 12, 29, Talgat Baimuratov 23, 27, Alexander Bondarev 25, Nurzan Doskeyev 32, 33, 37, 39). HT: 2-1.

WORLD FUTSAL C'SHIP : Thailand up against holders Iran 11/05/00

Coach: Local stars to use counter-attacks
Tor Chittinand
Thailand face a big task today when they take on defending champions Iran in the semi-final of the World Futsal Championship, Asian Qualifiers at Nimibutr Gymnasium.

Japan play Kazakhstan in the other semi-final.

SPORTS TALK: Bonus to National team is unwanted

THE re-elected president of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT), Vijit Getkaew, yesterday revealed the names of the members of the new working committee who will serve for a two-year term.

The new executive team will have two major tasks - to help the Kingdom's national team clinch berths in the 2002 World Cup and in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

Vichit showed that FAT was serious about its plans by appointing vice-president Thirachai Vuthitham to head the 2002 World Cup effort and Worawi Makudi to steer the 2004 Olympics project. To emphasise his point, Vijit immediately declared a huge bonus of Bt75 million for the Thai National team if they make it to the 2002 World Cup. His intentions seem good. But, is it wise to use the money this way? Though the path may be difficult, it is not an impossible dream for Thailand to qualify for the 2002 World Cup finals.

Fifa, the world governing body of football, has allocated Asia four and half slots for the 2002 World Cup, to be co-hosted by South Korea and Japan. Being co-hosts, the two countries will take two of those slots. So, only 2.5 slots remain for the rest of Asia. And after the top two emerge from the Asian qualifying round, the third best will slog it out for the fifth berth in a playoff with any European nation given the right to play. If this third team fails to win the play-off match against the European team, Asia will be left with only four nations in the 2002 World Cup finals. Judging from the past performances of our national team, it is possible for the Kingdom to make it to the top four. We have twice finished fourth in the Asian Games - in Beijing in 1990 and at home in 1998 where we beat hot favourite South Korea 2-1 in the quarterfinals.

We have won the top position in the Asian Cup Group 8 qualification this year. We beat North Korea, Malaysia and Taiwan to qualify for the Cup finals in Lebanon in October. The tournament will decide whether we can hold on to our top four position.

However, even if we fail in the Asian Cup finals, our chances of qualifying for the World Cup finals in 2002 will remain alive. We will still have a year to prepare for the preliminary round which will take place in May next year.

Thailand is grouped together with Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Pakistan for the preliminary round. The first leg of the preliminary round will take place in the Lebanon from May 13 to 17, while the second leg will be held in Bangkok from May 26 to 30. It is likely that we will finish on top of this group and then head for the 10-nation finals, the date and place of which has not yet been confirmed.

However, we also have to take into account the fact that besides South Korea and Japan, Middle East countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait and Iraq, are better than we are. Yet, we have the potential to beat all these teams. They are better, but not unbeatable.

So, the offer of Bt75 million is within reach of the Thai squad. And if they get it, it would be a thoughtless way of spending money on the FAT's part. If the association is wise enough and has such a big amount in its kitty, it would do the Kingdom a much greater service by using the money to lift up the standard of the sport countrywide. We have a mass following for football. Perhaps more than in any other Asian country. Football is played everywhere in Thailand - on city streets, in paddy fields, on vacant land and even on basketball courts.

The Hua Mark sports complex is a perfect example of this craze. On any evening, almost every corner of the complex and its adjacent roads are occupied by kids playing football.

When we have the resource why not manage it well? We can blood many talented players who may go on to make our nation the football powerhouse we dream of.

BY PRASERT SRISURB

The Nation

World Cup is Thailand's main target 05/05/00

Thailand named top seeds 04/05/00

Tor Chittinand

Thailand and Vietnam have been named top seeds and will play in different groups in the 3rd Tiger Cup football tournament in November.

Thais set for Asian battle 02/04/00

Tor Chittinand
Thailand have named 18 players for the Asian Futsol Championship which takes place at the Nimibutr Gymnasium from May 5-12.

The 18-man squad for this five-a-side tournament will be reduced to 12 the day before the tournament starts.

Thailand face stiff challenge in Lebanon 29/04/00

Bayern to play local stars in June  28/04/00

THE national soccer team will get another chance to play against illustrious opponents when Germany’s Bayern Munich visit the Kingdom on June 3.

After a meeting with German Embassy officials, Vijit Getkaew, the president of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT), said that the leading Bundesliga club, under the supervision of Franz ‘Kaiser’ Beckenbauer had agreed to play a friendly match against Thailand on June 3 at the National stadium.

Members of the squad bound for Bangkok will be announced later. Understandably, almost all of the players from the team are expected to get a call to represent their respective national teams in the European Championships. However, it is believed that team captain Stefan Effenberg and two Brazilian stars – Giovanni Elber and Paolo Serginho – would certainly come.

Elsewhere, the draw of the third under15 Nike Premier Cup, to be held in Ubon Ratchathani from May 5 to 7, was conducted yesterday. Eight teams will battle it out to represent the Kingdom in the Asian Championship in South Korea in June. Thailand has already qualified as one of the last six teams. The top three teams from the Asian meet will earn places in the World Championship in Holland.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Domestic fixture likely to affect preparation 26/04/000

NATIONAL football team manager Virach Chanpanich yesterday admitted that a tight domestic schedule for this season's Caltex Premier League may affect the Kingdom's preparation for the Asian Cup Finals in Lebanon from October 12 to 29.

Virach said that the Lebanon meet stands out as one of the toughest tournaments for the Kingdom, with Asia's top teams fielding their best players to vie for the crown.

He said that the Caltex Premier League, which is scheduled to commence next month, will certainly affect the naming of players for the national squad.

"They have to play for their own clubs during the Premier League. I don't think they will have enough time to train in preparation for the Asian meet. If the Premier League schedule remains the same this year (every week on Wednesdays and Saturdays), it will hamper our preparation for the Asian meet," Virach said.

"To prepare for the meet, we need at least four days a week of serious training. However, I will raise the issue with the executive board of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) on May 2. From then on, we will have to seriously speed up our preparatory plan."

However, he added that representatives from all clubs in the Caltex Premier League would be called to discuss and name their gifted players for the national squad for the Lebanon meet.

"It does not mean our preparation for the meet will start from scratch. I'm convinced that those who make it to the national team will be old faces who have gained valuable experiences from both local and international matches," Virach said.

"Although it's possible that the team may not comprise many young bloods, it will be markedly strengthened with a blend of experience and fresh faces. Peter Withe remains at the post of head staff coach, with Chatchai Paholpaet and Amnart Chalermchawalit assisting him. The trio will select the team from the names forwarded by each club."

Meanwhile, FAT's secretary-general Worawi Makudi yesterday revealed that Uzbekistan has decided to play their tune-up match in Thailand instead of hosting it.

Worawi said that the national team had initially planned to go to Uzbekistan in May for a tune-up match. Both teams have already qualified for the Asian Cup Finals in Lebanon and are in intensive training.

Meanwhile, Malaysia has already backed out of the Asian Futsal Championship, which will be held at the Nimibutr Gymnasium from May 5 to 12. The meet will serve as the qualifying round of the World Futsal Championship.

Nevertheless, since the draw has already been made, the Asian Football Confederation has decided to adjust the competition schedule, in which Kyrgyzstan will replace Malaysia. As per the new schedule, Group A will comprise Japan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Macao and Kyrgyzstan, while South Korea, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Palestine and hosts Thailand form Group B.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Three warm-ups scheduled 19/4/00

Suphap Thantiraphant
Thailand will have three international matches as part of their preparations for the Asian Cup finals in Lebanon in October, Worawi Makudi, secretary-general of Football Association of Thailand announced yesterday.

Thailand would play in Uzbekistan May 16-18 and Singapore on May 25 before returning to Bangkok to play Bayern Munich on June 3.

Shimizu win in shoot-out 14/4/00

Natl Futsal offers Bt1m 11/04/00

THE draw for the final round of Thailand Amstel Futsal Championship was made yesterday. Twenty four teams from all over the Kingdom will fight for the Bt1 million in prizemoney.

The competition will be held at MCC Hall, The Mall Shopping Centre, Bang Kapi from April 1823. The 12 teams from six regions that qualified for the final round will join the 12 teams that are already in the Premier League. The winners will get Bt500,000, the runnerup Bt200,000 and the third placed team Bt 80,000. The championship gains added significance as the selectors will pick a Thailand National team to participate in the Asian Futsal Championship scheduled to be held in Thailand from May 5 to 12.

THE DRAW

Group 1: Air Force, Army Force, Nakorn Sri Thammarat

Group 2: Port Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Sawan, Angthong

Group 3: Bangkok Bang, Bangkok Christian College School, Nong Khai

Group 4: Thai Farmer Bank, Krung Thai Bank, Samut Sakhon

Group 5: Sinthana, Surin, Royal Thai Navy

Group 6: BEC.Terosasana, Pang Nga, Prachinburi

Group 7: Osothsapa, Police, Pitsanuloke

Group 8: Telephone Organisation of Thailand, Bangkok, Samut Songkram

The Nation

Victory over Malaysia will book Thai tickets to Lebanon 08/04/00

Thawatchai makes Thailand's day  07/04/00

THAILAND edged Taiwan 10 to boost their hopes of making it to the 12th Asian Cup finals yesterday in the qualification Group 8 second leg at the National Stadium yesterday.

Thawatchai Damrongongtrakul thrilled the crowd of more than 25,000 when he fired a powerful strike from 30 metres, beating Taiwanese goalkeeper Yang Cheng Hsing.

Though National coach, Englishman Peter Withe, effected several changes in the first half, the Thais coordinated well and dominated the game. It was almost a onesided affair so far as controlling the game was concerned as the Thais poured on the aggression right from the beginning, aiming to put the visitors under pressure. Kiertisak Senamuang, who plays for English Division One Huddersfield, made a blunder in the 11th minute when he objected to a decision from Singaporean referee R Vijay and was shown a yellow card, his second in the tournament. It meant Kiertisak has completely dashed his hopes of playing in tomorrow’s final match against Malaysia.

Thailand maintained the attack, but could not penetrate Taiwan’s solid defence. Spearheaded by their trio of strikers Tawan Sripan, Anurak Srikerd and Thawatchai Damrongongtrakul, they then changed tactics and started to take longrange shots.

In the 20th minute, Chukiart Noosalung nodded a cross from Thawatchai from the left, but Taiwanese goalkeeper Yang showed quick reflexes to bring out a good save.

Thailand almost scored in the 41st minute. Niruj Surasiang fired from the top of the box but the ball was parried away by the Taiwanese goalkeeper. An advancing Kiertisak seized the golden chance to slam a rightfooter into the goal, but linesman Singh Gajendra from Nepal ruled him offside. For the Thai fans, the decision was a bit hard to digest. Their cheers turned into jeers as they tossed empty plastic bottles at the linesman.

However, just two minutes later Thawatchai set the stadium roaring when he blasted home with a classy strike from almost 30 metres to open his team’s account. Despite conceding the goal, Taiwan concentrated more on defence. They went for the counterattack, though it was a bit late. However, their teamwork and individual talent did not click in the face of a strong Thai defence.

Had it not been for a couple of brilliant saves from their goalkeeper, Taiwan would have conceded more goals. In the 53rd minute, Kiertisak was once again in the act when he headed a Dusit Chalermsaen freekick from the right. But the Taiwanese goalkeeper was equally good as he dived full length to effect a superb save.

Taiwan then rattled the Thais in the 66th minute when Chen Kun Shan trapped a pass from Pattanapong Sripramote before firing a low shot, but Thai goalie Virach Wangchan cleared the ball in the nick of time. Thawatchai had another chance of increasing the lead in the 74th minute, but his shot was tapped away by the Taiwanese goalkeeper.

“I’m happy with the team’s performance. We had prepared well for the match, which, as I said before, focussed mainly on defence. I’m confident we would also win tomorrow’s match. However, I have to consult the coach as to who will replace Kiertisak in the final match against Malaysia,” said Thai team manager Virach Chanpanich.

Taiwanese coach Hsieh Chin Fu admitted that his team was outplayed by the hosts, despite going all out. “In fact, I banked on my players to spring a surprise by holding the host team to a draw. However, we have not lost hope and will try our best in our final match against North Korea,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tawan Sripan and Thawatchai Damrongongtrakul will fly back to Singapore today to honour their club’s commitment. Both players, who play for Sambawang Rangers, would return tomorrow to join the Thai team in the final match against Malaysia. Earlier, in the first match, an inform North Korea trounced lacklustre Malaysia 41, shattering the rival’s dream of advancing to the finals. If Malaysia are to book a final berth, they must beat Thailand tomorrow and pray North Korea lose or draw with Taiwan. The Koreans’ victory yesterday increased their total points to eight from five matches.

Standing

Team P W D L F A Pts

Thailand 5 3 1 1 10 6 10

North Korea 5 2 2 1 10 7 8

Malaysia 5 2 1 2 10 10 7

Taiwan 5 1 0 4 3 10 3

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Kiertisak to bolster team  02/04/00

THERE was good news for the Kingdom’s National football team yesterday when their star striker Kiertisak Senamuang was given the green light from Huddersfield’s manager Steve Bruce to return at his country’s call.

The Thais, who are seeking a change in fortune in the 12th Asian Cup qualifying round Group 8 second leg on home soil between April 4 to 8, had been lobbying for the player’s return to boost the squad.

The team’s performance in the first leg in Malaysia from March 25 and 29 was below par in contrast with their gutsy effort at the recent King’s Cup, where they were crowned champions following their stunning victory against Finland in the final.

With only four points in the kitty from the first leg (a win and a tie against one loss), the Thai team faces an uphill task of winning all matches in the second leg if they are to make it to the finals in Lebanon.

Thai team manager Virach Chanpanich yesterday admitted that his defenders had put in a dismal performance in the first leg and needed Kiertisak’s services to make their defence more efficient.

“We have got the nod from Huddersfield’s manager Steve to let Kiertisak play for the National team in the second leg. Bruce agreed to let the player go despite his team having to play an important match besides a tussle against secondstring Burnley on April 4,” said Virach, adding that Kiertisak was due to arrive at Don Muang Airport this afternoon.

According to Virach, Surachai Jaturaphattarapong, who is now playing for a Singapore club, will not join the team in the second leg. Surachai says he cannot leave his family, especially while his daughter is sick.

“Only Thawatchai Damrongongtrakul and Tawan Sripan, both of whom are also playing for Singaporean clubs, are now training with the Thai team. We still need Kiertisak to strengthen the team. This time my team will be much stronger with the return of experienced veterans combined with the talent of a few rising stars. I’m confident we will collect nine points here to advance to the finals,” Virach said.

With the confirmation of Kiertisak’s return, one player from the team which played in the first leg will be dropped. One of Thongchai Akkarapong, Jatupong Thongsuk and Pipat Tonkanya will face the axe.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Bayern to play in Bangkok 1/04/00

Tor Chittinand
Germany's top club side Bayern Munich have confirmed they will play the Thai national team in Bangkok on June 3.

The final arrangements were made when vice president of Bayern, 'Kaiser' Franz Beckenbauer had talks with Thai Football Association secretary general, Mr Worawi Makudi during the Fifa meeting in Zurich last week.

Malaysia stunThailand with 3-2 victory  30/3/00

Uzbeks replace Saudis in Asian tournament  29/03/00

KUALA LUMPUR, March 29 (Reuters)(DS) - Uzbekistan's Novbakhor
have been invited to contest the semifinals off the Asian Cup
Winners' Cup in Thailand after the withdrawal of Saudi Arabian
club Al Ahli .
The Tashkent-based club was invited after the Asian Football
Confederation received official confirmation that Al Ahli had
pulled out -- a reflection of tensions between Saudi Arabia and
Thailand. Thailand is staging the semifinals on April 13 and the
final two days later.
Relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand have been
strained since the murders of several Saudi citizens during the
past decade.
Three Saudi diplomats were shot dead in Bangkok in 1990 and
a Saudi businessman was abducted and later found murdered in
1991.
A Thai national working in a Riyadh palace stole jewellery
and escaped in 1989 before being arrested and convicted in
Thailand. The Saudis complained that only 20 percent of the
jewellery was returned and a large amount of that was fake.
The strains have affected sporting events before. In
December 1998 the Saudis refused to send a full team to the
Asian Games when they were held in Bangkok.
Novbakhor get their second chance in the Cup Winners' Cup,
having lost 6-3 on aggregate to Al Ahli in the quarter-finals of
the competition.
They face Al Zawra of Iraq in the semifinals for the right
to take on either Shimizu S-Pulse of Japan or Bangkok Bank in
the final in Chiangmai, northern Thailand.

Thais promise to go all out against Malaysia 29/3/00

KUALA LUMPUR – Thailand’s clash with Malaysia today promises to be a thrilling affair as Thailand has vowed to come out winners with a 10 score line and become the Group 8 winner in the first leg of the Asian Cup Qualifying round. Thailand and Malaysia have an equal number of victories in their four previous Asian Cup qualifying meetings. However, a look into the history of all battles between two neighbouring countries, shows that the Kingdom has rarely won on Malaysian soil. Thailand is determined to improve their record and go into the match tagged as favourites.

“We have to carefully mark Rusdi Suparman, the No 16 player because he is very dangerous. Malaysia played very well against North Korea and had many scoring chances,” said Peter Withe, the Kingdom’s English coach

“Maybe, when they play in front of their home crowd the support helps them put in a much better performance. However, playing on home soil also has its disadvantages. I noticed that the crowd here regularly booed their players whenever they made mistakes.

“Our idea is to capitalise on this aspect and put pressure on them, don’t let them play their game,” Withe said. Asked if he was afraid of bias from the referee, he replied: “I can do nothing about that but I don’t think such things will occur in this tournament as I believe everyone here is professional. I predict we’ll win.”

Thailand is changing their starting lineup from previous matches. Khwanchai Feungprakob will play as a forward with Seksan Piturat, scorer of Thailand’s first goal in the tournament against Taiwan on Monday. Thailand had a oneandahalfhour practice yesterday. Before the training session, all players paid tribute to the father of coach Withe who succumbed to prostate cancer on Sunday.

In today’s first match, North Korea will take on Taiwan at 6.45pm at the Shah Alam Stadium. The national side will then face hosts Malaysia at 8.45pm. Channel 3 will delay the telecast of the match until about 10pm.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

Thais leave it late to seal victory  28/3/00

North Korea held by Malaysia

Tor Chittinand
Kuala Lumpur
Two goals in the last 15 minutes gave Thailand a 2-0 victory over Taiwan in their second match of the Asian Cup qualifying Group Eight at Shah Alam Stadium yesterday.

Club or Country ???  23/3/00

The many giggling schoolgirls and the few sheepish middle-aged men (getting autographs for their sons) in the crowd signal that this is no ordinary Prime League match. The object of all this attention - Thailand's Asian All-Star, Tawan Sripan. Tawan is a classic product of Thai football who is full of confidence and flair on pitch, yet charmingly shy off it. 

However, Tawan looked a bit rejected when the autograph session was over as he sat alone at the grandstand while his mate Thawatchai Ongtrakul was still pleasing some fans with one or two photo shots. Both Thais looked troubled and actually so do their coaches. Tawan Sripan and Thawatchai Ongtrakul have been called up to the Thailand National Squad for the coming Asian Cup qualifiers - news which came to the dismay of the club and the duo. While they love to don the colours of their Thailand team, they will now have to miss three important games against Championship contenders Tanjong Pagar United, Geylang United and Tampines Rovers. Both of them were expected to be called up only for the finals but not this qualifying round, where the Thais are expected to breeze through. The presence of the relatively unknown North Koreans in the same group probably accounted for Peter White's decision to call up his foreign based players except maybe Khatisuk, who is trying to establish himself in Huddersfield Town.

Things might change the next few days though as Tawan Sripan had decided to give the national team call up a miss as he wanted to brave the storm together with his beloved team, Sembawang Rangers. He informed SNG that he would be calling the Thai FA about his decision and hopefully everything turned out fine. But he will risk his international future by doing this and might even be blacklisted. He said "Can’t be help, this is a very difficult decision to make". This had troubled Tawan and Thawatchai since they received the fax from Thailand, and he and Thawatchai had vowed to give their everything against Marine Castle before they leave. These load of pressure had seemingly backfired as they both put in below par performances against the Dolphins.

Thawatchai Ongtrakul will however be definitely joining the Thailand National Squad in Kuala Lumpur. The Thai manager had told him that he is key player and that Coach Peter Withe would like to build his team around him and his presence will be crucial to the National team. Thawatchai will leave earlier than the expected 24th March to join the team. He will play in the games on 27th and 29th before asking permission to be released to play against Geylang United, even on his own expenses, to fly back to join the Stallions.

These words had really touched many souls especially the coaches. Chiang Boon Seng did sensed that his two Thai general had looked troubled the last few days and these had attributed to their below par performances. He is happy with their commitments with the club but feels that country always come first ahead of the club and will respect whatever decisions they made as long as that will not jeopardize their chances in the National Team.

Five Thais earn trial at Fulham 21/3/00

Dusit set for a trial spell at Bayern  17/4/00

Tor Chittinand
Thailand's star left wing back Dusit Chalermsaeng is to go to Germany next month to have a trial with the country's top club Bayern Munich.

Dusit, who was among the Asian All Stars who played an International Stars team in Hong Kong in 1998, has been one of Thailand's most consistent players in recent years. This season he has been playing in India.

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS  Ties in Beirut and Bangkok 15/3/00

Tor Chittinand
The kingdom's World Cup qualifying campaign in May next year will take place over two legs in Beirut and Bangkok. Thailand is in group 5 along with Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Lebanon.

The venue for the matches was agreed to by secretary general of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT), Mr Worawi Makudi after discussions with representatives from Lebanon and Sri Lanka in Beirut last week.

Thai Niweat joins the Bull ring  12/03/00

By Alvin Chua  www.soccerasia.net

Say sawadee-kap to Gombak United's latest acquistion - Thai central defender Niweat Siriwong.  The 23-year-old Niweat is one of Thailand's most highly rated defenders, and will be renewing his partnership at the back with compatriot Surachai Jirasirichote.

Stopper Niweat, who first trained with Gombak before leaving for his Thai club Sinthana's Asian Club Championship games in Kagoshima, Japan, joined the Bulls in their Penang tune-up tour.

"The contract will be signed in the next few days," said Gombak chairman John Yap. The defender has five national team caps, and was blooded in the 1998 Asian Games, where he lists hosts Thailand's 1-0 win over Lebanon as his most memorable match so far.

Niweat did not feature in Thailand's SEA Games campaign last year because he was captaining the U-23 side, but the young defender saw action against top flight Asians Jubilo Iwata, Kashima Antlers and Koreans Suwon Bluewings last month.

Sinthana lost all three games, but Niweat had the experience of playing against the likes of Japan striker Daisuke Oku, Russian Dmitri Radchenko and Korean Park Kun-ha.

Niweat joins former Sinthana teammate Surachai Jirasirichote (who also featured in the Thai club's Asian Club Championship campaign, on loan from Gombak), and is confident of making his mark in the S-League.

"I think I can help the team," said Niweat in Thai through countryman Surachai Jaturapattarapong. "I feel I can handle the S-League strikers and help the team finish in the top five this season."

The signing of Niweat is a direct replacement for Australian David Cervinski, who moved to Wollongong Wolves last season

No major surprises in Asia Cup squad  7/04/00

Nathee, Narong dropped  04/03/00

VETERAN defender Nathee Thongsukkaew and Narong Visetsri have been dropped from the national team for the forthcoming Asian Cup tournament, according to team manager Virat Charnpanich.

"Both Nathee and Narong were unimpressive during the recent King's Cup tournament, though Thailand emerged the champions. We have had to drop them and summon defender Panupong Chimpook of Sinthana FC and keeper Thongchai Sukkokee of Rajpracha FC to replace them," said Virat, who had a meeting with Football Association of Thailand (FAT) president Vijit Getkaew yesterday.

"Nathee and Narong are the only players who are out of the team from the team that won the King's Cup. Our aim is to build a very strong team for the Asian Cup qualifiers, in which Thailand are drawn in Group 8 with North Korea, Malaysia and Taiwan," Virat said.

The first leg of the Asian Cup Group 8 qualifier, which will be played in a league format, will take place from March 25 to 29 in Malaysia. The second leg will take place in Thailand from April 4 to 8.

According to Virat, the team will be announced officially tomorrow, and the encampment will begin a day later for players who play for local clubs, who are Virat Wangchan, Thongchai Sukkokee, Panuwat Tang-anurat, Thanongsak Prachakkata, Kovit Foythong, Pattanapong Sripramote, Chokethavee Promrat, Panupong Chimpook, Anurak Srikerd, Terdsak Jaiman, Chatupong Thongsuk, Nares Sukngam, Chukiart Noosalung, Thongchai Akrapong, Anont Boonsukho, Dusit Chalermsaen, Pipat Tonkanya, Seksan Piturat, Kwanchai Fuangprakob, Suthee Suksomkij, Thananchai Boriban and Niruj Surasiang.

The players from overseas clubs, Tawan Sripan, Surachai Jirasirichote, Surachai Chaturapattarapong and Thawatchai Damrong-ongtrakul, will be called up for training a week before the start of the first leg.

Star striker Kiartisak, who plays for the English club Huddersfield, will, however, not be called for the first leg in Malaysia, Virat said. "We will use Kiartisak only when we really need to," he said.

Virat also said that the team planned to travel to Malaysia by train a week before the tournament and play a few local teams on its way to Kuala Lumpur.

Virat, who is also the chairman of the selection committee, said Virat Wangchan, Niruj Surasiang, Chokethavee Promrat and Seksan Piturat would be sent to train with English Division-I team Fulham in June and July.

BY KOMKRIT NAPALAI

The Nation

TIGER CUP 2000 :Teams to play for record prize money 29/2/00

Suphap Thantiraphant

The third Tiger Cup tournament, to be staged in Thailand in November, will feature all 10 Asean countries who will compete for record prize money.

Thailand trounce Finland 5-1 in King's Cup final (REUTERS)

Final : Thailand 5 Finland 1

Scorers: Thailand - Sriker 22, 44, 81, Pipat 25, Boriban 56  Finland- Kallio 74

Halftime: 3-0; Attendance: 15,000

- - - -

Third place play-off

Brazil XI 1 Estonia 0

BANGKOK, Feb 27 (Reuters) - Thailand thrashed Finland 5-1 in the final of the annual four-nation King's Cup soccer tournament on Sunday as the European visitors succumbed to the tropical heat of Bangkok and a home side which rose to the occasion.

Midfielder Anuruck Sriker spearheaded the Thai charge with a hat-trick on a steamy afternoon.

He thrilled the 15,000 home fans at Rajamangala Stadium by putting Thailand ahead in the 22nd minute with a long range shot which swept past the hapless Finnish goalkeeper.

Although the Finns kept pressing forward, three minutes later Pipat dribbled through several Finnish defenders before firing Thailand's second goal from just outside the box.

Anuruck scored the third goal just before halftime

In the second half, the Finns showed visible signs of tiredness from the heat and humidity as the temperature rose to nearly 32 degrees Celsius.

The hosts made it 4-0 in the 56th minute when forward Tanachai Boriban scored after a goalmouth melee.

Finland's Toni Kallio headed in for the visitors in the 74th minute but seven minutes later Anuruck sealed his hat-trick and the cup for his team when he slipped past three Finnish defenders to hammer the ball home from close range.

In an earlier match for third place of Brazil's Under-17 youth team beat Estonia with a solitary goal by Matheus Coradini Vivian .

Gombak's Surachais miss the Brazil experience

By Alvin Chua

24 February 2000

One missed the chance to mark Ronaldinho or perhaps Jardel, and the other didn’t get the chance to see if he could dictate the play like Rivaldo. Gombak United’s Thais Surachai Jirasirichote and Surachai Jaturapattarapong were both called up by Thailand for Wednesday’s friendly against Brazil. Unfortunately both missed the match because of external circumstances.

According to Gombak chairman John Yap, Jaturapattarapong’s case was the more unfortunate as his baby daughter had a high fever and had to be hospitalised. The midfield general could not be contacted today but it is learnt that his daughter has since recovered.

Meanwhile defender Jirasirichote is currently in Japan with Thai club Sinthana FC as it prepares for its coming Asian Club Championship quarter-final games. Sinthana -- who took Jirasirichote on loan from Gombak and who even fielded him against the Singapore Armed Forces during their second round two-leg encounter -- face J-League sides Jubilo Iwata and Kashima Antlers, as well as Korean club Suwon Bluewings in Kagoshima, Japan. Jirasirichote’s International Transfer Certificate, now held by Sinthana, will be returned to Gombak in time for the March 9 start of the S-League, said Yap.

He also expressed disappointment that his two Thais -- who have since achieved cult hero status with the Gombak fans since their arrival two years ago -- did not get to play against the samba lads in green and yellow.

“We gave them our blessings to go, after all how often do you get the chance to play against Rivaldo?," said Yap “But unfortunately they both couldn’t make it. Jaturapattarapong was staying with his daughter in hospital while Jirasirichote is in Japan."

Brazil go on 7-0 rampage against Thailand 24/2/00