Battambang’s Deb Panida launches a second half attack on Kandal’s goal during their 2011 National Women’s Championships semifinal yesterday. Photo by: KRISTY JEFFERSON

Battambang

Battambang booked their place in the final of the 2011 National Women’s Football Championship with a 5-0 demolition of Kandal in their semifinal at the University of Battambang field yesterday.

Despite dominating the early stages, the hosts were unable to open the scoring until the 19th minute when Thy Nait drilled a ball low across the keeper to nestle in the corner of the net.

A penalty scored by Hout Kimhong and a sharp finish at the near post by Lenag Sreypouv gave Battambang a three-goal cushion at half time.

The second period saw the home side camped firmly in Kandal’s half, but solid goalkeeping and woeful finishing meant it wasn’t until the 58th minute that Sorn Sreyteav added to the score.

A controversial penalty awarded for an apparent handball was cooly converted by Hout Kimhong 17 minutes from time to complete the rout and secure Battambang’s place in the championship game.

In yesterday afternoon’s second semifinal, two fast and physical teams battled hard in the afternoon heat with reigning champions Banteay Meanchey eventually triumphing 1-0 over last year’s runners-up Siem Reap thanks to a first-half penalty scored by captain Oeum Lun.

The final between Battambang and Banteay Meanchey, which kicks off at 3pm tomorrow, will be a rematch of their Group A game which finished 4-2 in favour of the hosts. The third place playoff will also be played tomorrow at 8am.