Bangkok: Thailand’s set-piece specialist Korrakot Wiriyaudomsiri insisted that his goal in the 4-2 victory over Group B rivals Indonesia was no fluke as the War Elephants took a huge step towards the semifinals of the AFF Suzuki Cup.

The Buriram United full-back levelled the score at 1-1 directly from a corner kick, after the visitors had opened the scoring through Zulfiandi. The goal lifted the Thais who went on to lead 4-1 before a defensive lapse allowed the Garuda a late consolation.

Most fans in Rajamangala Stadium were left wondering if Thailand had benefited from a huge slice of luck at the first goal but for Korrakot, it was practice made perfect.

“It was intentional,” he said. “I practise it every day at my club. This is one my key skills and it can help me and the team so I am delighted that I found the net in this match.”

Korrakot acknowledged that the Thais switched off slightly in the closing minutes and, despite taking six points from six, he insisted that they would not settle for a draw when they play the Philippines in Bacolod on Wednesday.

“It was a good game overall and we got the right result even though we conceded a late goal and lost a bit of concentration at the end,” said Korrakot. 

“We still have to go for the win (in the Philippines). We have to win every match, so we will follow the coach’s instructions and do our best to get the win.”

Pokklaw Anan rounded off Thailand’s scoring with an excellent fourth goal and earned praise from head coach Milovan Rajevac for his performance after coming on as a second-half substitute. 

“I was happy to perform well,” Pokklaw said. “I prepared as well as possible despite the fact that I was on the bench.”

Nevertheless, the Bangkok United midfielder was not getting carried away and did not want to suggest that he had played his way into Rajevac’s plans for the clash with the Azkals.

“I’m not really thinking about that,” said Pokklaw. “We are all part of the squad and the coach has let everyplayer know that they have a chance of being selected. I am always ready to play my part if required.

“Everything is up to the coach and he will have his plan for the next match and he will know which players he wants to face the Philippines."