YANGON — From small-sided “attack versus defence” tactical drills to precisely crafted attacking set-pieces, it was clear what V Sundramoorthy was focused on as the Lions coach put the team through their training paces at the Aung San Stadium yesterday.

The national team faces Vietnam in the AYA Bank Cup final this evening, and Sundram is leaving no stone unturned in his first assignment as national coach since his appointment by the Football Association of Singapore last month.

Following their 1-0 win over hosts Myanmar last Friday, the 50-year-old admitted that they should have won the game by a bigger margin. The former international is confident that the goals will come against Vietnam today, as he said: “We were unlucky (in front of goal) in the previous game against Myanmar, but these things happen in football.

“In my day (as a player), I’ve had bad days in front of goal as well. But I just stayed positive, focused and told myself that I will do better the next game to score.

“So I have confidence in my players and if we play to our strengths, the goals will come. The important thing is for us to win, so I’ll be happy even with another 1-0 victory.”

While Vietnam looked irrepressible during their 2-2 draw against Hong Kong last week, former Singapore coach and technical director PN Sivaji believes their defence can be beaten.

“The two Vietnam full-backs were not convincing against Hong Kong and they could be exploited,” said Sivaji, who is currently the technical director of Myanmar outfit Hanthawaddy United.

“I’m still expecting another smash and grab type of game from Singapore, and I think scoring could be an issue for us again because that is not something you can correct over 48 hours. They should try to fully utilise their set-piece opportunities because they have players who are very good in the air.

“Vietnam are a quick passing team but more effective than Myanmar in the final third. Their attackers are extremely dangerous and lethal, especially when they get the ball in the box so Singapore will have to be wary about that.” NOAH TAN