Hong Kong stumble in friendly against Thailand as World Cup qualifier looms
Controversial penalty in the last few minutes against visitors sparks anger from coach Kim Pan-gon
A controversial penalty in stoppage time cost Hong Kong dearly, losing to Thailand 1-0 in an international friendly in Bangkok on Friday night.
Both teams are preparing for their respective World Cup qualifiers next week as Hong Kong will travel to Bhutan for their group C match, while Thailand will meet Vietnam in group F.
Despite dominating possession for most of the match, the hosts were heading to a disappointing barren result until the final moments that gave the crowd a lot to cheer for at Rajamangala Stadium.
There seemed to be minimal contact between defender Cheng King-ho and Thailand midfielder Thitipan Puangchan when they tussled for the ball inside the box, but the Vietnam referee awarded a penalty despite the discontent from the Hong Kong camp, including coach Kim Pan-gon.
Captain Theerathon Bunmathan then converted the spot kick just before the referee blew the final whistle.
Kim was disappointed with the decision. “The referee has to ask himself was he honest,” said the Hong Kong coach.
Debutant Tan Chun-lok was delighted with his performance as the 19-year-old midfielder said he had accomplished the task assigned by the coach, but would need to be more aggressive at international level if he wants to improve.
