Another clinical display from Thailand saw them edge India 2-1, much to the joy of coach Bryan Robson.

By Souvik Banerjee

"It was another good match after the one in Bangkok. We are happy to cope with the Indian conditions and play some good football," said Thailand coach Bryan Robson after his side’s 2-1 win over India in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The tie saw Thailand testing their bench strength ahead of the Asian Games, with both their goal-scorers Winothai Teerathep and Keawsombat Keerati barely 19.

"We wanted to test some young players ahead of the Asian Games. They rose to the occasion and performed brilliantly," said the former Manchester United midfielder.

He particularly pointed out Keerati and heaped praises on him. "There are 2-3 guys in the team in the 17-19 year bracket. It was amazing to see them adapting to the Indian conditions and performing so well," he added.

Robson also added that the Indian attack looked sharp.

"I think the coordination between their forwards and the midfield was particularly good, given the conditions were difficult once it started raining," Robson commented. He also that the ground conditions were really good.

When asked about Indian skipper Bhaichung Bhutia who played only for 25-odd minutes in the second half, Robson said it was too short a time to judge a player.

"The attack looked better after he came on, especially his coordination with Sunil Chhetri." he said.