Gian Chansrichawla
Football Tribe SEA Editor
Buriram United are looking to close the gap on league leaders Port when they face PTT Rayong in their postponed game-in-hand tonight at the Chang Arena.
The home side have some key players who were in action at the 2019 King’s Cup at the international break, hosted in Buriram. Supachok Sarachart, Supachai Jaided, Pansa Hemviboon, Siwarak Tedsungnoen, and Suphanat Mueanta all featured for the War Elephants at the annual tournament.
In their last outing, the Thunder Castle were held to a 1-1 draw at Sukhothai. However, their home record has been more convincing this season, as they are yet to lose on home soil and won their two most recent home fixtures, against Nakhon Ratchasima and Muangthong respectively.
This game also pits the league’s best defense against its worst attacking unit, as PTT Rayong have only managed to find the net 11 times this season, putting them joint bottom for goals scored alongside Muangthong and Suphanburi. However, their defensive solidity has allowed them to remain above the relegation zone, sitting in 12th place with 13 points.
Meanwhile, Buriram currently sit in second with 23 points from their opening 12 games, five points behind league leaders Port. A victory would help close that gap to just two points before the defending champions visit Port this Sunday.
The two sides met earlier this season in the first round of the 2019 Chang FA Cup, where Buriram emerged as 3-1 winners.