LookAtVietnam – After going through the first half of the V-League season nearly unbeaten, SHB Da Nang look a top chance to take the title they haven’t won for 17 years.

SHB Da Nang (right) look a top chance to take the title. (Photo: VNN)

Da Nang, coached by Le Huynh Duc, have a five-point buffer over Hoang Anh Gia Lai (HAGL).

Le Thuy Hai, a former team coach, said the central city team was undoubtedly a top title hope and had to be favoured ahead of defending champion Becamex Binh Duong and former winner Gia Lai.

The team’s success might be attributed to the talents of its young coach and squad stability, built through smart recruitment.

Since he took over more than a year ago, 37-year-old Duc has demanded strict discipline from all players. Rule breakers are benched and fined.

The former national striker, who retired in 2007, moved to Da Nang from the former HCM City-based Eastern Asia Bank team.

Although top players, Phan Thanh Phuc and Van Meo were not spared by the coach, who has Da Nang playing attacking football at every opportunity.

“I want to give it my all for my team and expect we will take the top spot in the V-League,” Duc said. “I hope to keep the team in top form.”

Da Nang’s squad includes five foreigners led by Jose De Emidio Almeida. He was the top scorer last season and has continued his form with nine goals this season. Team-mate Merlo Gaston, with eight, is pushing for Almeida’s crown.

Molina Gaston Eduardo, who has had few chances in the main team, proved his quality in previous seasons and can step in for Almeida or Gaston if they are injured.

Da Nang are also home to halfbacks Rogerio Machado Pereira and sweeper Rafael Marquez, who has received many approaches from other teams. They play a key role in the team’s game plan.

Local members include Pham Nguyen Sa, Phan Thanh Hung, Hai Lam and Van Hoc. The youngsters have impressed Duc with their hard work and on-field performances.

When the V-League resumes on June 6, Da Nang’s first rival is Hai Phong Cement, which have home advantage under coach Vuong Tien Dung. They are seventh with 19 points in the standings.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News