Thai football chiefs apologise after four red cards mar SEA Games final

PHNOM PENH: Thailand's football association apologised and vowed to investigate on Wednesday (May 17) after the Southeast Asian Games men's final against Indonesia was marred by two mass brawls and four red cards.

Thailand lost 5-2 after extra time on Tuesday, ending the game in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh with eight players on the field.

One of those sent off was Thai goalkeeper Soponwit Rakyart after he ran half the length of the pitch to join in the second skirmish between the sides, delivering a diving punch to an opponent.

"The FA of Thailand must apologise for the clash on the touchline," it said in a statement, adding it would "set up a committee to investigate those involved as soon as possible and will take decisive measures".

Men's football at the biennial regional event is played between under-22 sides.

The final had been billed as a chance for Indonesia to restore some pride to its football following a deadly stadium disaster and the loss of hosting the Under-20 World Cup.

But the game will be remembered for the scenes which began in the 97th minute when Thailand - who had been 2-0 down - scored to make it 2-2 and force extra time.

Thai officials celebrated their late leveller by running over to the Indonesia bench, prompting the first melee.

When Indonesia took the lead back early in extra time, their officials returned the favour, with even more incendiary results.

Sumardji, a member of the team staff who like many Indonesians goes by one name, told TVOne that their players "returned the provocation and I chased them and shouted 'Don't!'"

"But suddenly I got hit here (his mouth) and I fell down."

Kicks were landed as well as punches. Both teams had a player sent off, and members of their coaching staff were also