GOALLESS START FOR MYANMAR IN GRAND ROYAL CHALLENGE CUP

In spite of being backed by more than 15,000 adoring fans, it failed to inject confidence into the Myanmar national side as they could not make good on the several chances they have created throughout the exchange.

“The Bangladeshi players were strong and have good physique and they really played well. We got many chances but failed to convert them. Maybe we will play better in the next match,” said Marcos Falopa, the head coach of Myanmar.

Myanmar, who had beaten Bangladesh 1-0 in the Merdeka Tournament last month, started strongly but a one-two-one chance saw Myat Min failing to get the better of custodian Aminul.

The home team stepped up their effort but just could not find the last touch to the chances they have created with Myat Min again in the thick of the fray in the closing stages of the first half only to be denied again by Aminul.

The break saw both teams making several changes but that failed to change the tempo or the outcome of the game with Myanmar custodian Aung Aung Oo in excellent form to deny the visitors.

Bangladesh will play Indonesia tomorrow while Myanmar will complete their round of matches against Indonesia on 15 Nov 2008.

Myanmar are using the Grand Royal Challenge Cup 2008 to prepare for the AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 next month where they have been placed in Group A against Indonesia, Singapore and Cambodia which will be based in Jakarta.

MYANMAR: Aung Aung Oo, Min Thu, Zaw Lynn, Khin Maung, Moe Win, Aung Myo, Myo Min Tun, Yaza Win Thein, Paing Soe, Soe Myat Min and Yan Paing.