WATCH: Highlights as South China stroll into knockout stage of AFC Cup
Caroliners secure home-ground advantage for next round with perfect record after four matches in the group stage
A two-goal blast early in the second half sent South China into the knockout round of the AFC Cup as they brushed aside Pahang of Malaysia 3-1 at Mong Kok Stadium on Wednesday night.
The victory secured not only the top spot in group G for the Caroliners with a maximum 12 points from four matches, but also a home-ground advantage for the next round.
South China's remaining two matches are virtually dead rubbers for the Caroliners.
WATCH: highlights of South China's win at Mong Kok Stadium
We could have won by a bigger margin if we had taken our chances after going three goals up
However, South China coach Mario Gomez said it was too early to be thinking about the knockout round as they have an important local match against Kitchee next week.
"I know we are in the round of 16 but my mind is now with the League Cup final against Kitchee," said Gomez. "We had a good game and I am very happy that those players who do not play regularly also did a good job.
"We could have won by a bigger margin if we had taken our chances after going three goals up."
Chan Siu-kwan scored early in the first half to draw first blood for the home side but it was the two goals through Lo Kong-wai (53rd minute) and Jack Sealy (55th minute) that sealed the match.