SHB Da Nang hold top spot in V-League

HA NOI — SHB Da Nang keep their top position on the rankings after beating Becamex Binh Duong 1-0 in the 22nd round of V-League Eximbank at Chi Lang Stadium yesterday.

During the first half a 27m shot from Tan Dien in the 33rd minute was easily blocked by goalkeeper Dang Dinh Duc.

In the second half, SHB Da Nang poured on the pressure but failed to open the score. However, in the 87th minute, after constant attacks, their efforts paid off. Nicolas Hernandez headed the ball into the net.

Meanwhile, Ha Noi T&T and Sai Gon Xuan Thanh (SGXT) retained their second and third place, respectively.

The challenge for Ha Noi T&T was easier than for other teams when they met Vicem Hai Phong, who sit at the bottom in the rankings and will almost certainly drop a division. Although playing on their home turf, V. Hai Phong let things run their course and were defeated 0-2 on Saturday.

SGXT celebrated a victory over Dong Thap Rubber Corporation 4-0 at Cao Lanh Stadium on Saturday.

Kienlongbank Kien Giang and Khatoco Khanh Hoa, who are also in danger of relegation, both couldn't earn a win.

At Kien Giang Stadium yesterday, the hosts needed three points to get out of danger while Song Lam Nghe An (SLNA) wanted three more points to improve their position. Kien Giang played with determination but their simple way of playing couldn't breach the SLNA defence. The guests fulfilled their dreams with goals from Hughton Hector, Hoang Van Binh and Dickson Nwakaeme in the 9th, 28th and 90th minutes.

At Thong Nhat Stadium yesterday, Khatoco Khanh Hoa tried their best to score a goal against Navibank Sai Gon. However, the only goal of the match was from the hosts' Phan Van Tai Em.

In other matches, The Vissai Ninh Binh won over Hoang Anh Gia Lai 2-1 and Ha Noi Football Club defeat ed Thanh Hoa with the same score. — VNS