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Published on December 8, 2007

An error by Thai goalie Veera Kurdputsa almost cost the home team points before in-form striker Anont Sangsanoi, a hat-trick hero in the 8-0 mauling of Cambodia, secured the victory with an emphatic finish just before half-time. Burma beat Indonesians  for second place on better goal difference.

The hosts managed to gain a foothold in the game to edge forward in the 16th minute. Manchester City-bound centre-back Kiatprawut Saiwaeo showed off his skills by producing a perfectly-weighted long delivery into the box where star striker Teeratep "Leesaw" Winothai fended off a defender before slipping the ball past the advancing goalkeeper into the back of the net.

The hosts' lead was short-lived, though.A minute later, the Indonesians levelled. A cross from the right appeared harmless. At first, Veera seemed able to catch the ball but dropped it while landing. The loose ball was narrowly forced over the line by Indonesia. Stunned by the nature of the goal they conceded, the hosts took time before regaining their composure. Later in the first half, the home side managed to put things together again. Before half-time, the Thai team went ahead via in-form striker Anont's effort.

The hosts were awarded a set piece in the middle of the park and the ball was played quickly to overlapping right back Jeera Jaroensuk. The defender sliced the visitors' defence with an excellent through pass and Anont registered his fourth goal in as many games with a powerful finish.

The Nation

Nakhon Ratchasima