All Even at the Thunder Castle
On Sunday, Bangkok United challenged Buriram Untied for the league’s top spot at the Chang Arena. Angels head coach Mano Polking swapped the fullback pairing of Ekkachai Sumrei and Wanchai Jarunongkran for the more defensive Mika Chunuonsee and Putthinan Wannasri, a rare defensive move which indicated the magnitude of the game.
Nacer Barazite is the Thunder Castle’s biggest threat up front and should have put his side in the lead only to completely miss his kick from six yards out. Bangkok had more possession and came close in the 24th minute when they hit Buriram on a three versus two counter-attacking break. Pokklaw Anan played Nelson Bonilla through but the angle was just to tight for the star-striker to beat Siwarak Tedsungnoen.
The deadlock was finally broken when goalkeeper Michael Falkesgaard misplaced a pass as Bangkok were trying to build out from the back. Narubadin Weerawatnodom picked up the loose ball, made a quick burst forward then squared in Barazite, who redeemed himself by giving the hosts the lead after half an hour. However, Bangkok equalized just two minutes before half-time via Everton Goncalves’s bullet header.
After the break, Mano Polking’s troops continued with the same upward momentum – almost unlocking their way past the Buriram’s stronghold numerous time. Perhaps more finesse with their final ball would’ve done the job.
The match ended 1-1. Bangkok were probably the most likely winner but a point is not the worst result on the grand-scale of things. Buriram United, on the other hand, will be a relief they got away without defeat but also disappointed with the performance – especially in the final 20 minutes.
Samut Prakan Edge Closer to League Summit
Elsewhere, second place Chiangrai United lost away to Muangthong United at the hands of their former head coach, Alexandre Gama. The Beetles adopted a counter-attacking approach, looking to hit back with the pace and power of William Henrique and Bill Rosimar up front. However, that wasn’t enough to stop the Kirin’s attacking prowess, as Bruno Gallo assisted fellow new signing Derley for the game’s only goal.
At the Thalay Luang Stadium, Samut Prakan City got back to winning ways with a victory over Sukhothai. Jaroensak Wonggorn and Teerapol Yoryoei combined in a breathtaking counter-attack to put the Sea Fang ahead. The amazing John Baggio leveled the game with a divine freekick. Teerapol Yoryoei’s cross then found itself in the back of the net in the 47th minute – his second of the game and Samut Prakan’s winning goal.
This result saw the Sea Fang replaces Chiangrai at second place, equal on point with Buriram United. They now prepare to host the defending champions next Saturday.