Houghton rues India’s missed chances

NEW DELHI - Chief coach Bob Houghton said had it not been for a few missed chances, India would have won the return leg of the international friendly football match against a young Thailand side which notched up a 2-1 victory at the Ambedkar Stadium here Wednesday.

The Englishman called it an even contest, but was disappointed that his boys missed several chances to end up on the losing side.

“The performance of our boys was commendable, they kept working hard but I’m disappointed that we did not take our chances. They deserved to win. They played better in the first match but it was pretty equal tonight,” Houghton said.

Houghton was impressed with India’s attacking game.

“We played an attacking game tonight, and in fact our counter attacks were better. We looked more dangerous but Thailand capitalised on the chances. The boys were very good in the air and the climax especially was much better compared to Saturday’s match,” he said.

On Baichung Bhutia, who was brought in the 70th minute despite not being match fit, Houghton said: “It was pre-planned and had nothing to do with India trailing at that point. We always knew that Bhaichung would play at least 20 to 25 minutes.”

The Indian coach was also pleased with Bhutia’s performance.

“He keeps the ball in the opponents’ penalty area and gives a different dimension, and it rubs on to the other boys,” Houghton said.

Thailand coach and England legend Brian Robson praised his side for their performance against a stout Indian defence.

“I am delighted with our young players. Dechmitr Wichaya is only 19 and he has got great stamina and ability with ball. Mentally if he keeps his ground, he will be much better in future,” Robson said.

“Our attack did well against a strong Indian defence. India attacked a little more tonight, probably to please their fans, but that left more space for us to go for counter attacks. India looked good at playing little passes in the midfield and that caused us a lot of problems. They will be able to trouble a lot of good opponents this way.”