Thai under-12 team the cynosure in Japan

Under the tutelage of former national striker Piyapong Pue-on, Thailand got off to a flying start, showing better technical skills and rapid movement to beat Ventforet Kofu FC 3-1 in the round-robin format tournament.

The defending champions then picked up their second win by outclassing Nagoya Grampus Eight FC 5-0 before completing a hat-trick with a 4-1 win over Kariya City Training Centre. With nine points from three matches, the Kingdom’s youngsters are the favourites to win the remaining matches and the trophy. Nagoya Grampus and Vietnam team are second and third with six points each from three games. Thailand are due to take on Toyota City Training Centre team today before the final date with Toyota team from Vietnam.

Piyapong was confident that his side would win the last two games and retain the title. “It’s a question of nerves. Once our boys control their emotions, they were able to play like they were in the training session. I’m 99.9 per cent sure we are going to win tomorrow,” the formal national player said.

Wetsaphoo Rotthes, who scored three of 12 goals hit by Thailand yesterday, was excited to be the top soccer. “I didn’t expect to score three goals at the start of the day but I think I played really well. I believe we are second to none in this event,” said the eighth-grade student from Suankularp Nonthaburi School.