V.League: Quang Nam FC escape bottom after resounding win

Former champions Quang Nam FC demolished Hai Phong FC with three unanswered goals in their V.League matchday 12 encounter on May 31, to escape just two points clear of bottom place.

Quang Nam FC and Hai Phong players in action during their match at Lach Tray Stadium on May 31. (Photo: VPF)
Quang Nam FC and Hai Phong players in action during their match at Lach Tray Stadium on May 31. (Photo: VPF)

Despite the absence of their key forward J.Lynch (suspension), Hai Phong were still considered the stronger side owing to their annoying play-style and acumen in counterattacks.

The host team had the better of the match at Lach Tray Stadium, but they were unable to convert their possession into goals with Xuan Hung and Mpande both missing good openings for Truong Viet Hoang’s side.

Notably, Hai Phong could have taken the lead eight minutes after the hour mark when Fagan fired wide from a comfortable position in front of an empty net.

The wasted opportunities cost the hosts dearly, as Quang Nam FC fought back to score three consecutive goals in the last 35 official minutes to snatch their second victory of the season.

Minh Tuan headed in a 65th-minute cornerkick to open the scoring before completing his double with another header 15 minutes later.

Four minutes from overtime, Quoc Chi displayed a superb solo run capped by a precise finish to seal a convincing 3-0 triumph for the guests.

The commanding win lifted Quang Nam FC to second from the bottom, just two points above Sanna Khanh Hoa BVN, who conceded a narrow 0-1 defeat against Becamex Binh Duong on the same day.

Reigning champions Hanoi FC missed the chance to reduce their gap with leaders Ho Chi Minh City after being held to a goalless away draw by Hoang Anh Gia Lai. Meanwhile, Saigon FC and Song Lam Nghe An pulled off a 2-2 tie to remain level on 18 points.