Ready to serve: V. Ruventhiran is ready to play his best if fielded against Singapore. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: It’s no flight of fancy. Malaysia winger V. Ruventhiran believes the key to unlocking a compact Singapore side in their do-or-die AFF Mitsubishi Cup Group B match tomorrow is to play smart and keep emotions in check.
The 21-year-old is expecting to face a defensive Singapore as the Lion City need just a draw to pip Malaysia to a semi-final spot while Kim Pan-gon’s men must win to advance.
Singapore are second in Group B with seven points after three games while Malaysia are third with six. Vietnam lead the standings with seven points but boast a better goal difference.
Ruventhiran said the onus will be on Malaysia to attack and go for a win but they will need a smart game plan to accomplish the task.
“The coach has encouraged us to attack and get the goals, but we must also stay solid at the back and not get caught on counter attacks,’’ said Ruventhiran, who recently joined Selangor.
‘’It will also be an emotionally charged atmosphere as we’re playing at home. We must not let the pressure get to us, to the point where we start committing lots of fouls.
‘’Mental strength will be a huge factor in this game.’’
Pan-gon has rotated Ruventhiran and Nor Hakim Hassan on the left flank during the tournament, and he has no issue with that.
“Hakim is more experienced than me, and I’m learning from him. Our job is to do our best when fielded and we’re focused on helping the team get the win.’’
