Football Tribe SEA Editor
Everton Goncalves’ 73rd minute tap in against Samut Prakan City helped Bangkok United pick up three points on the road for the second time in a week. Days earlier, it was a goal by Thossawat Limwannasathian that downed rivals Muangthong at the SCG Stadium.
Bangkok United, a club that has unfortunately developed a reputation for slow starts in the Thai League, have smashed their way out of the gates this season. The Angels have collected nine points from a possible nine, and it is making the league sit up and take notice.
Not only did the side pick up full points from two consecutive away matches, but they’ve also managed to emerge victorious from both after setback equalizers which would’ve derailed them last season. However, despite the improvements, coach Mano Pölking was quick to dismiss this as just “a ‘small’ good start [to] the season.”
Coach Pölking noted the importance of improving their record on the road in his exclusive pre-season interview with Football Tribe, as poor results on their travels cost them dearly last season. The Angels were able to collect 33 out of 45 points from their home matches last season, but by contrast picked up a measly 17 on the road all season, emerging victorious just three times on their travels.
However, this year has started very differently for the side, as both Samut Prakan City and Muangthong United are tough sides to beat in their own back yard.
“After just three games it’s impossible to predict too much but winning [those] two games away it’s a good sign for us,” Mano admitted. “I don’t believe any other team in the league will get six points [from those] two pitches.”
When asked what has sparked these positive results, Mano noted that he was pleased with “the attitude of the team” and “the fighting spirit and the effort they are putting into it.” In addition, the side have retained the core of their squad, coming into this season with a significant amount of continuity, which has certainly allowed them to hit the ground running.
However, their tough start does not end there, as the side are set to host defending champions Chiangrai United on Saturday. The Beetles have not begun the season on the best note, collecting five points from the available nine, but they have consistently shown their ability to challenge the other big boys in one-off matches regardless of form.
“[It’s been a] difficult start Chiangrai because of the heavy schedule with the Champions League and all the travel plans,” Mano noted ahead of their upcoming clash. “Five points after three games is still ok after those circumstances.”
“Games between us are always very tough and will be winning or losing on small details. Two great teams with the same expectation. We [have] good momentum and we just want to continue like that; going all out for the next three points”
