Defending champions lose to Nam Dinh in Nat’l Cup

(01-06-2007)

HA NOI — Defending champions Hoa Phat Ha Noi (HP-HN) lost to Dam Phu My Nam Dinh (DPM-ND) 2-0 in the quarter-finals of the Vinakansai National Cup at Hang Day Stadium yesterday.

Despite having home advantage, HP-HN conceded a goal 31 minutes into the game when DPM-ND’s Manh Tu forced his way past two defenders before connecting with striker Ngoc Linh who scored the visitor’s opener.

In the 39th minute, DPM-ND were reduced to 10 men after Ngoc Lung was given a red card. HP-HN tried their hardest to capitalise on their one-man advantage but failed to convert their chances. Adding to the home team’s woes, William Santos failed to score twice from the penalty spot.

After the break, HP-HN came out on the offensive, but failed once more to make the breakthrough they desperately needed. The home team’s fate was finally sealed in the 69th minute when Linh scored his second goal following a fumble by keeper Nguyen Manh Dung.

DPM-ND are expected to meet TCDK-SLNA in the semi-final.

Last year, HP-HN defeated Gach Dong Tam Long An 2-1 to hoist the National Cup. Their 2-1 win at Ninh Binh Stadium helped HP-HN earn a place in the Asian Football Confederation’s Champions League this year. — VNS