* Hong Linh Ha Tinh promoted to V.League as First Division champions
Despite having already earned promotion to the V.League in the previous two matchdays, Pham Minh Duc’s team headed into the home clash with a three-point target as a gift in tribute to the enthusiastic support of fans throughout the tournament.
However, they faced fierce resistance from Long An, who also eyed a victory to foster hopes for a top-three finish in the table.
In the 40th minute, keeper Tung Lam brilliantly parried a freekick from the Long An side, but he could not prevent Anh Tu from scoring on the rebound to give the guests a 1-0 lead into half-time.
After the break, Hong Linh Ha Tinh increased their pressure, creating a number of clear-cut chances which were unexpectedly squandered by Tuan Hai and Duc Nam.
Following a series of missed opportunities, striker Tuan Hai brought the match back to parity with a 86th-minute shot from close range.
While the match seemed likely to end in a 1-1 draw, the hosts were awarded a penalty and Tuan Hai made no mistake beating the Long An keeper from the spot to seal a 2-1 victory for Pham Minh Duc’s side.
Hong Linh Ha Tinh players celebrate the First Division trophy with joy. (Photo: Vnexpress)
With the last-gasp triumph, Hong Linh Ha Tinh lifted the overall First Division trophy and pocketed VND1 billion (US$43,000) in prize money, earning a total of 53 points after 22 matchdays, 13 clear of second-placed Pho Hien FC.
As the runners-up, Pho Hien FC will participate in the playoff match with the 2019 V.League’s second-from-bottom team to compete for a place in the 2020 V.League season.
