James Wattana thinks he let his team down at Bangkok Convention Centre: 2011 Snooker World Cup
After facing a blow against Australia in the opening match, Thailand’s James Wattana thinks he is the reason behind his team’s defeat in the 2011 Snooker World Cup at Bangkok Convention Centre. The first Thai team lost to Australia by 4-1 in their opening match of the tournament on Monday, July 11.
The opener of 2011 Snooker World Cup turned out to be an easy victory for the Australian pair, Neil Robertson and Steve Mifsud, at the end of day one. Wattana and company couldn’t make their presence felt at the arena as they tumbled down by the score line of 4-1. Thailand Team 1 is still in the group stage of the tournament though, and has the chance to restore their glory.
Local favourite Wattana didn’t perform according to the hopes of his home crowd and after losing, blamed himself for the defeat of his entire team. The player felt really disappointed after the loss but was hopeful to play better in the next match.
“I felt quite good but my performance showed otherwise,” said Wattana, a national hero in Thailand after a career that has included three ranking tournament victories in the 1990s and two appearances in the World Championship semi-finals.
He added, “I think I let my team down as I had chances to win. There wasn't pressure on us before but now there is as we lost 4-1 and didn't expect to lose like that. We're still in the tournament and could beat anyone but we can't afford to lose anymore.”
Thailand Team 1 has been drawn in Group B along with Australia, China, Malta and United Arab Emirates. After Australia, Thailand 1 has another challenging opponent, China. China’s Ding Junhui will be one of the toughest opponents and to beat him, the 41-year-old Wattana must cover his flaws and build a strong strategy.
Wattana also has the home support behind him at the arena, something he will be counting on to work for him. So far Thailand 1 stand at fourth place in the group after one match and the players need to pull up their socks if they want to remain alive in the competition.
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