I won’t take it easy says Ricki

Trivandrum, INDIA – Maldives national team coach Ricki Herbert has said that he will not take the match against Afghanistan as an easy game.

“Afghanistan is a very matured side with 18 players who are playing Europe as full time players and a lot of international caps on their names. And I want to put players who I believe has a future for this country against teams like this. So it will be a challenging game for us.” Ricki said to media today after the practice session.

“I don’t like to put a team that will take the match easy. Maybe I will put a team with players that I want to see and maybe the game pressure. Maybe some changes, maybe some new positions just a look to see how some players can cope.” He added.

He also reiterated that its pleasing to get through to the semi final with one game in had.

“I am delighted really and I think it’s a big step forward for this group and to get through with one game in hand is pleasing. Probably we will get the chance tomorrow night to try things."

“We are in a group that plays more than the other group, they have a lot better rest time. So I have to understand that with my players as well.” Former New Zealand coach said.

When asked about the confidence of the team after winning the two games they played, he replied;

“The mood in the camp is excellent and the players are having a balanced confidence and the results is good and the performance is progressing. But we have so much to do.”

“The players who are with me now are good enough, doesn’t matter the age is 18, 19 or 35. If they are here I have faith on them. Maybe your 19 and you don’t have the experience of somebody who is 32 and that’s the only difference.” Ricki said about the players he got.

Maldives will play against Afghanistan tomorrow at 1800 hours tomorrow in the last match of group B.