VietNamNet Bridge – Despite the return of three-time Golden Ball winner Le Cong Vinh, Ha Noi T&T suffered a humiliating 1-4 loss to Hoang Anh Gia Lai yesterday, March 6, in the Central Highlands city of Pleiku.

The defending champions dropped to 11th in the V-League following the loss, floating above the relegation zone after their third defeat in a row.

T&T were put under pressure from the whistle and conceded their first goal after 24 minutes from a set piece.

Phung Van Nhien delivered the perfect ball for Evaldo Goncaves to head home via the crossbar, leaving goalie Duong Hong Son with no time to react.

Seven minutes later, Gia Lai doubled their lead after Goncaves and Allan Wanga Wetende combined well to set up the latter who beat Son for the second time in the far corner.

T&T rallied well and narrowed the deficit, courtesy of a 41st minute Cao Sy Cuong penalty.

However, Gia Lai returned totally refreshed after the break and despite the introduction of Vinh, the home side dominated the midfield and extended their lead with a Goncaves penalty.

Wetende added to his tally in the 80th minute with some skilful play.

Vinh's only chance came at the end of the match, but his close-range shot was soft.

After five matches, T&T have six points. They will meet Dong Tam Long An in their next game at home. Gia Lai moved up to ninth in the league on the same points as T&T, and will travel north to meet Hai Phong on Sunday.

In Ha Noi yesterday, Hoa Phat Ha Noi defeated Nabibank Sai Gon 2-0 to climb to third place. SHB Da Nang consolidated their position at the top after a 3-1 victory over Ha Noi ACB.

Earlier, Dong Thap strengthened their second place spot with a difficult win over former champions Song Lam Nghe An.

In other matches, Khatoco Khanh Hoa lost 0-1 to Ninh Binh at home and Dong Tam Long An were beaten 1-2 by two-time V-League Champions Becamex Binh Duong. The only match to end in a draw was between Thanh Hoa and Hai Phong who tied 1-1.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News