Thai striker Sompong Soleb put their disappointment behind them when they beat Cambodia 4-0 to pick up their first three points of the men’s football event at the SEA Games in the match that was played at the Chao Anu Vong Stadium. The defending champions, who had romped to the men’s football crown for the last editions of the SEA Games since 1993, did not get the start they wanted in their first game in Group A two days ago when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Vietnam. But this evening, there was no comeback for Cambodia as Thailand easily took a 3-0 lead at the half. The porous Cambodian defence just could not withstood the onslaught of the physically superior Thai side conceding their first goal of the competition in the 19th minute. Off a Arthit Sunthornphit’s cross from the left, striker Sompong Soleb headed home from close range to give Cambodian keeper Samrith Seiha no chance at all. Cambodia attempted to win the possession in midfield but with the influential Khim Borey tightly marked, there was little chance for them to find the equaliser. And Thailand bide their time before delivering the killer blow with two quick goals just before the break. The first was almost identical to the first Thai goal but this time Arthit’s goal was put away by striker Kirati Keawsombut. Seconds later, Sompong grabbed his second of the afternoon when he blasted in from close range to make sure that the cross from Theerathon Bunmathon was not wasted. And Thailand could not have began the second half on a better note then to finish off their opponent with the fourth goal off the game - with Sompong completing his hat-trick in the 49th minute with a well-taken grounder from inside the box. Comfortably in front, the Thais step off the gas somewhat to allow Cambodia more space but with their defence being sturdy as it is, Thailand were in no danger of being caught out. A missed penalty in the 62nd minute from Arthit failed to douse the upbeat mood in the Thai camp as they completed their afternoon with the full points. Read more: http://www.laoseagames2009.com/v1/newsx2009xdecx4c.aspx#ixzz0YjACxAQv
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