Despite losing point guard Koh Way Tek, their key player, at the beginning of the final quarter, the Malaysians seemed able to handle such a setback. They even managed to stage a fast break to move ahead for the first time, holding a 59-55 advantage.

Afterwards, Ratchadech Kruatiwa's two free throws and Chawat Kaedam's lay-up helped the Thai team cut the deficit to 67-78.

With only five seconds left, the error-prone Thai players, who committed many fouls, were forced to eat humble pie when Kuppusamy Satyaseelan nailed a free throw for the visitors.

"The Indonesian referee was not good and his decisions benefited our opponents. The Malaysian team played very well and our side simply lost their rhythm," said Suthep Benjaphokee, the president of the Basketball Association of Thailand.

Despite the loss, Thai captain Piyapong Pirun believes his team still has a chance of finishing as one of the top two teams and taking a berth in the Asian Championship in Japan.

"If we win by more than five points against Indonesia, we will get the berth. We think it is not beyond our ability," said Piyapong.

"We will be fresher than Indonesia, as we will get a rest tomorrow, while they will have a tough match against the Philippines. We will take the loss as an inspiration for the game against Indonesia," said the captain.

Meanwhile, Singapore were routed by favourites Philippines 122-55 in their second game, with Mark Anthony Caguioa scoring 24 points to emerge as the match's top scorer.

The Singaporeans improved their showing but were no match for the solid Filipinos, who enjoyed the height advantage.

Somporn Suphop

The Nation

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