Russia must shoot on sight — Advocaat

RUSSIA manager Dick Advocaat has revealed he will tell his players to shoot at every opportunity in tomorrow’s crucial Euro 2012 qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.

Russia moved two points clear at the top of Group B after a 1-0 victory over Macedonia in Moscow on Friday after Ireland and Slovakia took points off each other in a dour scoreless draw at the Aviva Stadium.

Ireland’s failure to win on Friday means they need to grab a first ever win in Moscow if they are seize control of the group.

Former Netherlands boss Advocaat, however, has vowed his side will go for the jugular against Giovanni Trapattoni’s men. “I always ask my players to shoot from distance more and will do that on Tuesday again,’’ Advocaat said.

Andrey Arshavin impressed in Russia’s victory over Macedonia, providing the assist for Igor Semshov’s decisive 41st-minute goal.

The Russian is having a torrid time at Arsenal and his contribution has been heavily criticised in the club’s dismal start to the season.

However he remains a key figure for Russia and his display against Macedonia delighted Advocaat.

“I never saw Arshavin play so well for Russia during my reign,’’ he said.