Gian Chansrichawla
Football Tribe SEA Editor
The weekend began as Muangthong United drew 1-1 with Chiangmai FC on Friday night. The hosts took the lead after Chotipat Poomkaew fired in an impressive shot on the turn from outside the box. Ten minutes before half time, the Lanna Tigers were given a numerical advantage as well when Muangthong’s Adisorn Promrak was sent off following a rash challenge as the last defender.
Thankfully for the Kirin, substitute Sanukran Thinjom managed to level the scoring five minutes from time with a half-volley which he buried in at the far post. Despite being down a man, Muangthong continued to press in search of the winner but ultimately came up short.
Chiangrai United kicked off Saturday’s action, hosting a resolute Chainat side which were eager to pick up points in order to escape the relegation zone. The visitors were able to keep Chiangrai until the dying minutes when a header by William Henrique won all three points for the home side and pulled them level on points with Buriram before tonight’s action.
Meanwhile, Port FC continued a poor run when they drew 2-2 at home against Chonburi. Coach Sasom Pobprasert’s revitalised Sharks are already establishing themselves as ‘giant killers,’ as they managed to take maximum points from their matches against Muangthong United and Buriram. They took the lead after just seven minutes through Worachit Kanitsribampen, who got the better of both of Port’s central defenders after bringing the ball down in the box and tucked his shot away.
Both defenses looked out of sorts, and Port clawed their way back into the game thanks to a goal from Siwakorn Jakkuprasart. The hosts were forced to come from behind for a second time when Brazilian striker Caion scored Chonburi’s second goal, but Sergio Suarez was able to rescue a point for the Klongtoei Lions and avoid a third consecutive home defeat.
Samut Prakan City missed a golden opportunity to reach the top of the table when they faced PTT Rayong in Saturday’s late game. The side have been this season’s surprise packages, maintaining an unbeaten home record and becoming renowned for their discipline and tactical nous. However, the Sea Fang went behind when a back-pass header from Aris Zarifovic found its way into the back of his own net.
The visitors soon doubled their lead with a smart finish from Saharat Kanyaroj, and wrapped up the victory when the hosts goalkeeper was caught off his line, with the lobbed goal being tucked away by Apiwat Pengprakon.
Two more of the top five are in action tonight, as Bangkok United host Trat, looking to return to winning ways after their last two results. Meanwhile, Buriram travel to Prachuap looking to re-establish a three-point lead atop the table.