Finland (6) v (7) Timor Leste

By Dhugal Bedingfield

Timor Leste have wrapped up seventh place in the Host Cup after a nailbiting 7-6 win over Finland.

Despite the heroics of Finnish keeper Jari Aberg who repeatedly denied Timor Leste with some brilliant second half saves, two late goals from Amaro da Silva were enough to secure the match.

It was Finland who burst out of the blocks early, catching their opponents napping with a goal through Karl-Bengt Henriksson after just 13 seconds but Timor Leste were able to hold their composure to take a two goal advantage. Natalino da Silva Faria was particularly impressive in the first half finishing sharply twice before setting up a third with a clever pass off the wall. Finland rallied late to equalize just before half time thanks to a splendid side step and finish from Toni Nastolin.

Nastolin brought up his hatrick with another tidy finish after the break and although Timor Leste were dominating possession they couldn't find a way past the giant Finnish keeper Aberg who somehow managed to make three amazing saves from point blank range in the space of a minute.

Timor Leste kept pressing forward and their persistence paid off as Amaro finally managed to exploit the tiring Finnish defence, firing two past Aberg to seal the contest.

Karl Erik Kenttamaa pulled a goal back in the last minute but the final whistle blew and Finland had to settle for eighth place.

Photos: Photoworx