Hai Phong miss opportunity to overthrow Hanoi's reign

Hai Phong spurned an opportunity to replace Hanoi FC atop the 2017 V-League standings after playing out a 1-1 draw against Song Lam Nghe An in their 11th-round encounter at Lach Tray Stadium on April 2.

Hai Phong and Nghe An players compete for the ball during their V-League match on Sunday.

The port city team renewed clash with old rivals Song Lam Nghe An without the service of two defensive pillars, including goalkeeper Van Lam and central midfielder Van Phu.

However, the mobility of foreign striker duo Fagan and Stevens allowed Hai Phong to enjoy an overwhelming first half with constant attacks poured on the guest side.

Stevens put the hosts in front after 10 minutes, but the weakened defence forced them to drop the advantage 15 minutes later as Van Duc penetrated into the box and beat Hai Phong keeper Van Phong with a nasty strike.

With the match brought back to the starting line, both teams strengthened their offence constantly threatening each other’s goal. Foreign duo Fagan and Stevens produced four additional finishes but failed to restore the lead for the home side before the break.

Song Lam Nghe An also frightened Hai Phong a number of times with strikes by Henry and Van Duc that either came off target or were denied by goalie Van Phong.

With time running out, the lack of accuracy in finishes prevented both sides from seeking any goals, thereby accepting an aggregate 1-1 draw.

Securing just one point against Nghe An, Hai Phong remained in fifth position in the V-League table with 18 points, one point behind the leading group of Hanoi FC, FLC Thanh Hoa, Quang Nam and Sanna Khanh Hoa BVN.

Results of other matches:

- Saigon 4-0 Long An

- Hoang Anh Gia Lai 1-0 Quang Nam

- SHB Da Nang 0-1 Sanna Khanh Hoa BVN

- Becamex Binh Duong 1-0 Ho Chi Minh City