Courtesy: The Macarthur Chronicle


Futsalroos coach opts for experience

27Mar07

CAMPBELLTOWN-BASED Futsalroos coach Scott Gilligan said he had opted for an experienced and familiar team to compete in this week's eight-nation ASEAN Futsal Championships in Thailand.

Gilligan said he was advised of the tournament only on February 28.

Having such limited preparation forced him to call up players who were experienced and comfortable playing alongside one another.

Five players from Campbelltown Quake men's Premier League-winning side were given the nod by Gilligan.

They include goalkeeper Gavin O'Brien and defender Simon Keith, veterans of two World Cups, midfielders Andrew Paine and Miles Downie - they made their national debuts at the 2006 Asian Championships - and newcomer forward Tuan Cao.

"With this tournament, I've had to give in to experience," Gilligan said. "I like to bring in new players but that's not viable this time.

"The ability of the Quake players, and the fact they can play together, will make a big difference."

The eight-nation ASEAN Futsal Championships got under way yesterday (Monday) and concludes this Saturday



Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com