Hong Kong (2) v (2) Norway*

Won on penalty shoot-out

By Fiona Crawford

STRONG goalkeeping forced the Group D bottom-of-the-table clash between Hong Kong and Norway to a penalty shoot-out at Federation Square this afternoon.

Norway came from behind to edge out Hong Kong three penalties to two after the teams were locked 2-2 at full time.

Hong Kong opened the scoring with a late goal in the first half after Norway misunderstood a refereeing call. Thinking it was their ball, they were slow to get back to defend a Hong Kong roll in, allowing Hong Kong to slot the ball in unmarked.

Norwegian captain Trond Laland forced the Hong Kong keeper to three stellar saves in as many seconds but didn't find the equaliser until the second half.

Norway seized a penalty opportunity to go 2-1 up when the Hong Kong keeper ventured outside his arc, but Hong Kong answered immediately to lock the score at 2-2 and set up the shoot-out.

Both keepers saved the first shots on goal before Langland slotted in his one. The Norwegian keeper then saved Fu Wing Chu's shot to secure Norway the win.

Photos: Photoworx