Obb Deewajin
Football Tribe Thailand
All eyes were on the Chang Arena in Buriram this weekend, as title hopefuls Bangkok United took on defending champions Buriram United in what looked like the most consequential game of the season so far. However, results across the league saw things get even tighter at the top.
Klongtoei Lions’ Struggles Continue
Port FC’s woeful run of six winless games carried on in an away defeat to the rising PTT Rayong, who have been on red hot form since the midway point of the season. Head coach Jadet Meelarp’s attempt to force Sumanya Purisa and Sergio Suarez into the same side continue to disappoint, while latest big signing Rolando Blackburn disappeared up top.
Firepower head coach Teerasak Po-On opted for a very defensive back-four, fielding natural center-backs Sarayut Sompim and Korawit Namwiset at right and left-back respectively. The Lions, without natural winger such as Pakorn Prempak or Nurul Sriyankem, lacked output down the flank and unable to penetrate beyond Rayong’s defensive line. Bordin Phala, although very strong in offensive one-on-one situations, tended to cut inside from left and run into an already congested area. Without an in-sync overlapping run from the left-back to pull opposition defender away, it was difficult for Bordin to have any influence going forward.
Funnily enough, Port’s best effort in the game came when Bordin tried his luck from within his won half. It would’ve been a Beckham-esh moment, but unfortunately the shot bounce off the crossbar.
PTT Rayong got their winner in the 70th minute, as Dennis Murillo found space in a counter-attacking move on the edge of the penalty area. The Brazilian striker struck a first time effort with his left foot, pulling off a sublime finish into the far corner of the net. Substitute Pakorn Prempak and Josimar both missed opportunities to equalize from within Rayong penalty box and the game finished 1-0.
Since the result, Jadet has been removed from his position and instated as the technical director, a position he held before taking over from Kiatisuk Senamuang. Replacing Jadet is former Thailand U23 coach and senior team assistant Choketawee Promrut.