A late strike by Sarawut was enough to see off a stubborn Singapore side to leave Thailand top of Group A. Following their sketchy performance against Indonesia, Thailand were slightly improved but found clear-cut chances at a premium.
The defence was certainly more solid, though they were caught out a couple of times by quick Singapore counter-attacks. However, lack of quality with the final ball meant that the game remained in the balance.
Teerasil had Thailand’s best chance in the first-half but headed narrowly wide from six yards when he really should have scored.
It was a familiar pattern after the break with Thailand pushing forward but failing to get behind a well-drilled defence. However, with only a few minutes remaining the breakthrough came.
Theerathon collected the ball out on the right before whipping in a perfect cross for Sarawut to get in front of his marker and cleverly flick a header over the keeper.
With Indonesia and the Phlippines drawing 2-2, it meant that Thailand finish top of the group and will meet the runners-up of Group B in the semi-finals.