DPR Korea thrashes Iran 5-0

Bangalore, Oct 31 (UNI) DPR Korea thrashed Iran 5-0 in their second match at the Bangalore leg of the AFC Asian Youth Championship, being played at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium here today.

At half time, the winners were leading 3-0.

A superb brace each by Korean Captain K Kum IL and J Chol Min, aided by substitute R Hung Ryong, enabled Korea to register its first win in Group C. In the inaugural match, Korea had lost to Japan 2-0.

DPR Korea, which had qualified after a gap of eight years, opened its account in the very third minute when Min netted the ball by heading a pass from R Chol Myong. He again scored in the 11th minute encashing on a pass by P Chol Min.

Midfielder K Kum IL scored a brace, scoring once in each half.

First, he outsmarted two defenders to score a solo goal in the 25th minute. After 23 minutes, he struck again encashing on a pass by Chol Min.

Forward Hung Ryong enabled his team to register an unassailable lead by scoring the fifth goal in the 77th minute, overcoming substitute defender H Yoousefi.

Four time champions Iran, which had defeated Tajikistan 3-1 in its first encounter in the league, failed to maintain its tempo, unable to breach the impregnable defence of Korea.

Referee Salem Mujghef splashed the yellow card thrice to Korean players Y Yong IL, P Chol Min and K Kyong IL, besides to Iran Skipper M Pooladi for obstructing Y Yong IL.

In his post-match comments, DPR Korea Coach complimented the team for the resounding victory and said ''it was a team work. The boys, after suffering defeat in the first match at the hands of Japan, succeded in regrouping themselves and registering a great victory.'' Iran Coach De Oliveira Clovis Alberto said ''we are not dead yet, we will put up a brave fight against Japan in our next match.'' UNI MSP GD-VK SKB1943