Gian Chansrichawla
Football Tribe SEA Editor
After pulling off a remarkable survival campaign last season, Chainat Hornbill have already grabbed headlines this season with home victories over Bangkok United and Muangthong. Both of the Thai League’s biggest spending sides fell short during their visits to the Khao Plong Stadium, running into a fierce, intense opposition which managed to grab all three points on both occasions.
This time, Dennis Amato’s side are set to host yet more visitors from the capital, this time in the form of league leaders Port FC. The Klongtoey lions have been impeccable in recent weeks, but the German coach remains hopeful that the Hornbills can complete a hat-trick of upsets.
“Port started very well this year; they have amazing quality in offense, [and their] form is impressive” coach Amato admits, who adds that they have been “presenting themselves as the best team in T1 so far”
However, after his side beat Muangthong United and Bangkok United at home, there is a genuine belief that this squad can beat anybody on their home turf. “I always have the same confidence in every match,” the Chainat boss claims. “The opponent is not important for me. I trust in my team and in the hard work and effort we put in training.”
“We go in with a lot of respect on Sunday, but without any fear.”
He adds that his side must aim to win every match at home, as a means of staying in the new 16-team Thai League amid fierce competition from other sides hoping to beat the drop.
Chainat’s survival went down to the final day last season, and the Hornbills coach will be looking to avoid a similar situation after a decent start to the 2019 campaign. “I’m happy with our season so far; we have already 10 points, [which is] more than expected,” he says. He goes on to add that the side’s second season in the top division may be even more difficult than the first, as he must comply with one of the tightest budgets in the division.
The Hornbills have also had to contend with injury problems so far, as they took to the field against Chiangmai FC in midweek with only one of their foreign imports on the pitch.
However, despite the obstacles in their way, coach Amato remains confident that his side can survive in the top division for yet another season. Pulling off an upset this Sunday against the league leaders may go a long way in helping them to achieve that feat.