Lanka meet Turkmenistan today

Bernard Perera

SOCCER: Sri Lanka under 20 soccerites will come out for the first time today to play against Turkmenistan under 20 in the Asian U-20 Championship Group 'G' match at Sugathadasa Stadium. The kick off is scheduled for 4.00 p.m.

Turkmenistan who faced the Aussies on Wednesday lost the game three goals to nil. Coach of the team after the match said this boys did not have proper training, Most of the players are under 17. All senior players in the side had to leave as they have to serve the Army.

But we want to win the games ahead of us. He admitted Australian side is a better team. He also added our national team has beaten Sri Lanka and we hope to repeat the same in this tourney and is looking forward to a better performance from the boys.

Sri Lanka team led by Asanga Viraj will have to put up a fine show today to get the better of Turkmenistan the way the they played against strong Aussies. The team could correct their mistakes and come out as a well knit side. On the other hand must not leave room for their opponents to penetrate the defence.

According to coach Mahinda Palitha the local team is well balanced and is sure to do the needful according to situation that arises on the field.

The Lankans should always try to keep the ball intact while looking for gaps to move them through neat passes.

If they stick to this formula they could find the net to collect few goals.