South China stroll to another easy win in AFC Cup

South China proved they will be tough to beat in the AFC Cup after strolling to a 3-1 win over Myanmar side Yadanarbon at Mong Kok Stadium on Wednesday night.

Goals from Lo Kong-wai, Mahama Awal and Daniel McBreen in the first half sealed the group G match, although the visitors grabbed a late consolation through Zaw Lin Tun's header.

Following their 6-1 demolition of Philippine side Global in their opening Cup match last week, the Caroliners have a firm grip at the top of the group table after Pahang of Malaysia were held to a surprising goalless draw by Global in another match last night.

Yadanarbon coach Kyi Naing believes South China are the strongest team in the group and should have no problem making it to the next stage.

But South China coach Mario Gomez refused to get too far ahead, saying they still have four matches to play in the group.

"We have won two matches but the most important thing is for the team to keep improving," he said. "We will have to travel to Malaysia for a crucial game against Pahang next week and a hectic schedule in domestic competitions may also affect our players."

"I heard the fans chanting for me and I am very happy about that," said Awal, who joined from now disbanded China League One side Sunray Cave in December. "The AFC Cup is something new to me and many of my teammates, who have vast experience in the regional competition, are helping me out.

"I'm not 100 per cent yet and need to keep working hard. It is not important how many goals I have scored - the team result always come first."

Visiting coach Kyi Naing said their performance was affected by the weather, adding the players did not wear the proper boots to handle the slippery surface.

But he refused to throw in the towel after two losses in a row. "If we can beat Penang, we still have a chance in the group."