Gazza Makes Successful Debut in Chinese Soccer League

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Sunday, March 30, 2003

Gazza Makes Successful Debut in Chinese Soccer League

Former England international Paul Gascoigne scored a goal and set up another in his debut with Gansu Tianma on Saturday, steering the Chinese second division side to their first win of the season.

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Former England international Paul Gascoigne scored a goal and set up another in his debut with Gansu Tianma on Saturday, steering the Chinese second division side to their first win of the season.

Tianma coach Gong Lei spoke highly of the Englishman after their 2-0 victory over Qingdao Aokema at home.

"I'm very satisfied with his performance," said Gong. "He played a pivotal role not only in attack but in defence as well."

Yin Lihua, head coach of Qingdao Aokema, felt helpless about containing Gascoigne on the pitch.

"His ability is far beyond the level of our players, even that of the second division league," he said.

Gascoigne, nicknamed "Gazza", showed his world-class skills in the 19th minute as he stole the ball in front of the penalty box, beat two defenders and unleashed a powerful shot into the upper left corner of the net.

"I dedicated this goal to my family, to the whole team, and the fans who supported us throughout the match," Gazza said after the game.

Earlier, Gazza had won a penalty kick for Tianma but his team mate missed it.

Seven minutes from the final whistle, the 35-year-old Gascoigne laid a ball into the path of Wang Heng, enabling the striker to seal the win.

Gascoigne, who won 57 caps for England, signed a one-year renewable contract to be player-coach at Tianma in January after being turned down by first division side Liaoning.

Gascoigne was set to play in the season opener last Saturday but the club decided to postpone his introduction so he could be introduced to the home supporters.

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