Ex-Lions urge players to focus and play without fear

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SINGAPORE - A disputed penalty stood between Singapore and what would have been a credible draw with China in an Asian Cup qualifier in 2006, and the lessons learned that August night in Tianjin still hold true.

So believes that man whose challenge in the box was harshly adjudged to have been a foul, the resulting converted penalty helping China escape with a 1-0 victory.

Former Singapore skipper Aide Iskandar remembers that day vividly, and warns the current batch of Lions of the dangers that lie ahead should they fail to learn from history.

Singapore take on China in Kunming tomorrow in their opening Group A match in the third round of Asia's World Cup qualifiers and Aide said yesterday: "The current team that we have should come away with a good result, especially after the performances against Malaysia and Thailand.

"But they need to concentrate for every single second of the game until the referee blows the final whistle, and they need to show teamwork, those things are vital."

Five years ago in Tianjin, Singapore played like a unit for 90 minutes, showing good teamwork and strong commitment against a China side featuring a number of players with European club experience.

But a lack of concentration allowed the Chinese to slip inside the Lions' penalty box during added time, leading to the penalty.

Alongside Aide in defence that day was S Subramani. The former defender urged the Lions to play without fear.

"Every single player on the pitch that day did his part and played to instruction: That is what the current players must do on Friday," he said.

"The boys must not go into the game thinking they are going to lose. We have players who will give us a chance to come away with a good result, but it is all a matter of mindset. They must believe they can get a result."

Aide believes there could be much to cheer about tomorrow. "It's tough but definitely not impossible to leave Kunming with a good result, especially considering that China are a team in transition, with a new coach in Jose Camacho," he pointed out.

"We should capitalise on that, but the team must concentrate until the referee blows the final whistle."