TWO goals from midfielder Tam Siu-wai maintained Eastern's perfect record at the top of the Hongkong First Division with a 2-0 victory over Sing Tao at Mongkok Stadium last night.
The pint-sized playmaker pushed Eastern in front as early as the 15th minute and settled a hard-fought encounter with his second just 10 minutes from the end, when Sing Tao were down to 10 men following the 59th-minute dismissal of sweeper Jason Hall.
On an eventful evening for Tam he was also in action during the half-time interval, collecting his cheque for being voted player of the month for December.
Eastern's victory moved them on to 24 points from eight straight wins, six clear of second-placed Michelotti and with a game in hand.
Champions South China are third in the 10-team table, 11 points behind Eastern but with a game in hand on their arch rivals.
Eastern complete their first round of fixtures on Monday against bottom club British Forces, who now have the chance to become the first side to score against Eastern in the league this season.