BANGKOK (2 Sept 2011) – Thailand fell to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of world champions Japan in the opening match of the final round of the 2012 Olympic Games qualifiers at the Shandong Sports Centrein Jinan, China.
The Thais put up some stiff resistance in the first half even though they were without three key players – Pisamai Sornsai, Janpen Siserm and Karnjana Sang-ngern – through either suspension or injuries.
But sustained pressure in the second half saw Nahomi Kawasumi finding the net in the 61st minute before Asuna Tanaka then made it 2-0 in the 75th minute of play.
An own goal right from substitute defender Kunupatham Kwanruethai right at the end, completed an afternoon of misery for the Thai girls.
Other than Thailand and Japan, the other teams competing for a place in London are China, Australia, South Korea and North Korea.
Only the top two teams in the six-nation tournament after a round-robin competition will progress.
In the other matches, hosts China was held to a 1-1 draw by South Korea while Australia fell to a 1-0 loss to DPR Korea.
