Singapore striker Khairul Amri has said that his team will go for the kill against Indonesia in their final Group A clash of AFF Suzuki Cup 2016 on Friday.
The Lions, who are placed third in the group, need a win or at least a draw at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila to stay in contention for the semi-final spot. Their chances will rely on the result of the other game of the night between leaders Thailand and second-placed Philippines in Bulacan. A win for the hosts in the game would knockout both Singapore and Indonesia.
However, warning bells rung by Thailand coach Senamuang would have given hopes to the the Lions and the Garudas, who have been able to collect only one point from their two outings so far.
Also read: Analysis - How Singapore can still make it to the semi-final
Nonetheless, Amri believes that they cannot afford another draw on Friday and that they will end their goal drought that has been a constant talking point when the Lions are concerned. Notably, V Sundramoothy's side have scored only three goals in their last nine outings.
"We're all fired up and determined to get a result tomorrow [Friday]. We know we have to [score goals]. We can't just depend on a draw," Amri was quoted as saying by The New Paper.
"The pressure is on, and it's up to us to control the game and get the goals we want. We must also make sure we don't get frustrated if we don't manage to score early, and stick to the coach's plan."
Sundram has played according to the strengths of his oppositions so far. Against stronger teams of the likes of Thailand and Philippines, the Lions remained compact and defended well to fend off attacking threats.
The defensive approach, which worked against the Azkals, also seemed to tick against the War Elephants before the Lions conceded an agonising late goal. Against Indonesia, who have shown attacking intent, Sundram will be tempted adopt a similar approach and make use of counter-attacking opportunities.
Amri says that team is backing the defensive approach and would want to convert chances into goals on the big night. "To be honest, I prefer that style of play - to hold the ball up and bring my teammates, who are bursting forward, running in support of me, into play," the 31-year-old striker added.
"Look at how many clear chances we created in the second half against the Thais. If we can do that again tomorrow, I'm confident we'll get the goals and result we need."
