Ishii demands sharper finishing act

Thailand coach Masatada Ishii admitted his side needs to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to defend their King’s Cup title tomorrow.

- TOR CHITTINAND

The champions will battle it out against Iraq for the title after they defeated Fiji 3-0 in the opening match at Kanchanaburi Stadium on Thursday night while Iraq edged Hong Kong 2-1.

The Japanese tactician said his players wasted too many scoring opportunities despite what was a comfortable victory.

“I told the players after the game that they need to be more clinical when it comes to scoring goals. We missed so many chances today [Thursday]. In a more important match like a World Cup qualifier, we would have been in big trouble,” said Ishii.

“Overall, we did well and that's why we won the game. We have two days before the final and I want the players to be as fit as possible for the match. Many players weren't 100 percent today so they didn’t get to play.”