WINNING DEBUT FOR ROBSON

Thailand beat Vietnam club Hoang Anh Gia Lai (HAGL) 7-6 on penalties in the four-team meet that was played at the Surakul stadium.

The score at the end of regulation wads 2-2.

HAGL, coached by former Thailand international Dusit Chalermsaen, took the lead on 16 minutes when Rodrigo Toledo put them in front before Hoang Van Thuan added the second three minutes later.

But a double in each half from striker Datsakorn Thonglao gave Thailand a lifeline into the penalty shootout.

The former V-League champions were then reduced to 10 men in the closing stages when Jang Mung They was sent off for his second yellow card offence.

“The players showed their character. I am very delighted by their attitude after being two goals down,” said Robson.

“After two games, I have seen quite a lot of them and know their style. I hope I can bring out their potential.”

In the third-place play-off, Thai Premier League champions Muang Thong United beat Yadanarbon 4-2.