Syria came close to opening their account in the 13th minute, but forward Alaga's header missed the upright by a whisker. In the next minute, Al Zeno's powerful right-footer, from the edge of the box, kissed the far-post on its way out.

Sri Lankan defence finally caved in the 26th minute under relentless attacks when Al Zeno headed in a neat cross from Ayan. Syria didn't have to wait long to double the lead as Al Housian nodded in from Ala Al Shibli's cross.

Four minutes later, Ayan was again in business when he set-up Alaga with a clever pass as Syria went into the breather with a comfortable 3-0 lead.

Sri Lanka were more focused in the second half, but a defensive lapse in the 55th minute saw Alaga complete his brace. Alaga volleyed from a rebound to complete the tally for the Syrians.

In the last 10 minutes, Sri Lanka stepped up the pace, but by then it was too late.

The win has perched Syria at the top of table with six points from two matches and two more to go.