The convincing 25-22 25-20 25-20 victory over the Hanoi side, 10 of them national players who competed in the SEA Games, helped rewrite a chapter of Thai volleyball history. Thailand have never won the Princess Cup since the biennial tournament in started in 1982.

Thailand, loaded with talent and experience, clinched the match thanks largely to Patcharee Saengmuang's spikes and Amporn Hyapha's jump serves.

"It was a tough match. We suffered on attacking and our serves were below par, especially as Vietnam improved fast.

"They attacked well and their blocking was impressive," said Thai head coach Sutthichai Chanbunchee.

"If we want to retain the SEA Games crown we have to work much harder especially on defence but I'm happy with the team's form since we didn't lose a set. Now we continue training for the World Grand Prix."

The third place play-off earlier saw China's Sichuan, fourth in the games in Nakhon Ratchasima two years ago, pull off a dramatic 3-1 win over Japan's Toray Arrows.

Preechachan

Wiriyanupappong

The Nation