This finale of this weekend’s football would mark two-third of the 2019 Thai League (T1) season gone. It’s every club’s final curve before the sprint into the finish line. Standards need to be raised and if points need to be won, this is the time to do so.
Speaking of raising the standard, we head to Saturday’s early kick-off at Sam Ao Stadium where PT Prachuap FC welcome Chonburi FC. The Sharks have been dismal on the road for the entire season, managing just one away from ten matches and finding the net only 8 times so far. As for the Killer Wasps, they’ve only lost two home games this season – their defense, in particular, will be the deciding factor in this match.
Head coach Thawatchai Damrong Ongtrakul is likely to stick with his preferred back-3 system which saw them concede only 8 goals at home and held T1 leaders Buriram United to a draw two weeks ago. Only Trat FC (7), Buriram United (6) and Suphanburi FC (5) have conceded fewer in front of their supporters. And if Chonburi FC’s poor attempt to break past Suphanburi last week tell us anything, it’s that they’ll probably have another frustrating night – hitting long-balls at an opponent who’s happy to sit deep and pounce on the break.
At the SCG Stadium, Alexandre Gama’s roaring Muangthong United should have more than enough to finish off Ratchaburi FC. Still, the Kirin may want to keep an eye out for their ex-winger Jakkapan Pornsai who has been in lethal form since joining the Dragons on-loan from Bangkok United.
The biggest game of the weekend, however, will undoubtedly be the top-of-the-table clash between Samut Prakan City and Buriram United. The defending champions remain on top despite a run of four winless games, but find themselves level on points with their hosts tonight, who remain the rank outsiders in the title race.
Sunday sees two teams looking to capitalize on Saturday’s favorable fixture, as Chiangrai and Bangkok United both sit two points behind the league leaders, eagerly awaiting a slip up from either side in tonight’s match.
Bangkok United host the struggling Korat, who have failed to win in any of their last five league outings. The early season overperformers have lost their touch in front of goal, and need things to turn around for their strikers’ form if they want to bounce back.
Every weekend looks like it could potentially define a season in the Thai League currently, but even in that context, the action over the next 48 hours seems especially crucial.