Theerathon, Kawin back coach Zico for bigger role
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Theerathon Bunmathan and Kawin Thamsatchanan, two key members of Thailand's SEA Games title-winning football side, yesterday backed coach Kiatisak "Zico" Senamuang to take charge of the senior side.
Thailand’s under-23 players were unbeaten en route to reclaiming the title, their first since 2007 and 14th overall, in Nay Pyi Taw with a 1-0 victory over 2011 finalists Indonesia. Sarawut Masuk’s perfectly-weighted chip into the far post midway in the first half proved decisive in the outcome.
The title triumph helped restore some pride after Thailand, the most successful team in the biennial event’s history, suffered back-to-back group stage exits in the previous two editions in Laos and Indonesia, respectively.
The Thais’ success saw the 40-year-old Kiatisak became the third Thai to win the SEA Games title as both player and coach. The former national striker had helped the country win the gold medal four times in the regional sporting tournament during his glittering career.
Buriram United left back Theerathon, who was handed the captain’s armband by Kiatisak and who excelled in the leadership role, said his side still has room for improvement.
“We still have several things to correct such as the players’ fitness and the team’s movement. At times, our movements were not as fluid as one would like them to be. Some younger members went straight upfield after they passed the ball, not looking back to try and provide more support in the move.”
However, Theerathon, who won the title in his second attempt after a nightmarish campaign in Jakarta two years ago, had no doubt that Kiatisak, renowned for somersault celebrations after celebrating a goal, was good enough for the national team’s top post.
“I think he’ll do a good job if he takes charge of the senior team. He looks after every player in the team very well.
He also makes a thorough study of the opposition before each game.”
Muangthong United keeper Kawin also had no misgiving about Kiatisak’s suitability for the senior team job.
“He’s one of the good coaches we have. His distinct advantage is the experience he had from his playing days. He helped us sort out any problem we had and taught us may things both on and off the pitch,” said Kawin.
