Schaefer defends decision after King's Cup loss

Thailand’s soccer team coach Winfried Schaefer defended his decision to field an experimental side, which suffered a resounding 3-1 loss to South Korea in the King’s Cup tournament at Rajamangala National stadium yesterday.

The German trainer, who turned 62 last week, opted not to include several first choice players including main striker Teerasil Dangda in the lineup against South Korea's under-23 team coached by former Korean international player Hong Myung Bo.

With a decisive match against Oman in the World Cup qualifiers next month, Schaefer said he did not want to risk the regulars' health against Hong Myung Bo's team, who are in driving seat to book a berth in the London Olympics as they currently sit atop of the qualifying group.

Given the fact that the team Schaefer fielded rarely played together, it was no surprise that the youthful Korea side came out on top, showing more cohesive play by far before running out as deserved winners.

The only plus for the hosts from a largely forgettable evening was the form of BEC Tero Sasana striker Teeratep "Leesaw" Winothai, who marked his rare start with a fine effort, chipping the ball over the keeper into the far corner just after the break.

"It's really disappointing that we lost today. We could not use several players because they are at risk of burnout after a gruelling season. I also cannot afford to lose them to injuries since we have World Cup qualifier next month," said Schaefer.

In the Cup’s other match, defending champions Denmark had to settle with only a 1-1 draw with Norway.