Singapore Under-21 coach Richard Tardy is wielding the axe after seeing his side slump to a 3-0 defeat by Malaysia on Friday.

"I don't think there were three goals between the teams and I was angry at the performance," the Frenchman said ahead of today's Nations Cup third-place play-off against Vietnam in Malacca.

"We were not in control. We waited too much and we were not 100 per cent, especially offensively. I will change three to four players."

Against Harimau Muda, Singapore looked off the pace and gave their opponents too much space.

When they did have the ball, crosses were overhit, while shots lacked the power and precision to trouble the Malaysia goalkeeper.

It took them 35 minutes to carve out their first attempt at goal.

Goalkeeper Zharfan Rohaizad had a day to forget and his sloppiness played a part in all three goals.

Tardy suggested some players were feeling the effects of last Sunday's RHB Singapore Cup tie against Philippine outfit Ceres FC, which stretched to extra time.

But he said his charges need to get used to playing every five days if they want to cut it at the top level.

The coach also felt the the derby hype had got to some players.

Captain Ammirul Emmran agreed, saying: "Some of us were too hyped up. We lost our focus and made some basic mistakes. But we will definitely bounce back."

Known for his stern lectures, Tardy said he expects the players to put in a more dominant shift today.

The 65-year-old said: "I expect (third place). I am sure it will be a totally different (performance). I told the players I don't want to come back with a second loss.

"We had a good video analysis session and I am sure it will be a different game. Vietnam's a good team. They lost to a strong Thailand side and they will want to beat us.

"The players know they have disappointed many people. I'm sure our spirit will be strong tomorrow."

Chua Siang Yee

NATIONS CUP

Third place play-off: Singapore v Vietnam, 4.40pm.

Final: Malaysia v Thailand, 8.40pm - Singtel TV Ch109