SEA GAMES 2011: PHUKET FC PROVIDE FINAL TEST FOR THAIS

PHUKET (3 Nov 2011) – Phuket FC will provide the last and final test for Thailand later today as they look to regain the SEA Games crown they lost to Malaysia two years ago in Laos.

The Thai team, who are currently in the southern beach city of Phuket, were chasing their ninth straight SEA Games crown in 2009 before they were stopped in the group stage by a resurgent Malaysia.

But this time round, the Thais are better prepared with the team having spent more time together as they look to cap their fine 2011 season in the ASEAN region with the most coveted gold medal at the SEA Games.

“The players are now getting fit and this is very good for the team. But they must improve their scoring and defending,” said Prapol Pongpanich, the chief coach of Thailand.

“Therefore, the last warm-up match with FC Phuket later today will be the test of everything and after this match; the team will be in good shape.”

But while the Thais would like to end their preparatory phase for the SEA Games on a positive note, there are concerns with injuries in their final test match against Phuket FC – especially when midfielder Naruepol Ar-romsawa is still struggling with a groin injury.

“I have told the players to be very careful with injuries because we only some days left to the SEA Games,” said Thailand manager Kasem Jariyawatwong.

“I told the team doctor to take good care of Naruepol and I hope he will get fit before the first match. I don’t want to risk him by playing him in the last warm-up match.”

Thailand will leave for Jakarta on 6 November 2011 – three days before their first game against defending champions Malaysia.

SEA GAMES FIXTURES
GROUP A