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Published on December 12, 2007

Having witnessed a team performance that he branded the best in the tournament so far, Thongsuk struggled to hide his delight. "I could not ask for a better performance than today. I'm very proud of my team," Thongsuk said.

Thailand will face Burma, who beat Vietnam on penalties in the other match, in the final on Friday.

Thongsuk kept his faith with the striking pair of Teeratep "Leesaw" Winothai and Anont Sangsanoi.  Thongsuk's men were on the offensive from the outset, prompting the visitors to commit a series of fouls to interrupt them.

However, it was the visitors, who first made an attempt at goal, but goalkeeper Sivaruk Terdsungnoen made a brave save at the feet of Khairul Amri inside the six-yard box.

Play swung quickly to the other end but Apiphu Sunthornpanavej and midfielder Wuthichai Thathong missed the post narrowly in quick succession.

But minutes later, Wuthichai made amends for his earlier miss by thumping a firm header this time from the opposite corner into the empty net.

On the stroke of half-time Leesaw won possession and raced clear towards goal. Although the goalie was able to block Leesaw's effort, his partner Anont side-footed home the rebound.

Holding a two-goal advantage, Thongsuk's side preferred to play defensive in the second half. The hosts wrapped up the game in the 77th minute when Leesaw nodded the ball to Prat Samakrat, who had a simple task to score.

Kitinan Sanguansak

 The Nation

Nakhon Ratchasima