Division 2 Champions League
(Group A)
Kasetsart 1-1 Ratchaburi
Pattalung 3-1 Loei City
Phichit 2-1 Phitsanoluk
(Group B)
North Bangkok 0-1 Rayong
Roi Et 3-2 Lamphun
Korat 0-1 Krabi
The two Bangkok teams of Kasetsart and North Bangkok, have mirrored each other with disappointing openings to their Division 2 Champions League crusades. Both sides currently prop up their groups with only one point a piece. They have only found the net once and have conceded three goals in the process. Unless the pair of them drastically improve form, they'll be locking horns once again in the 2012 Bangkok 2nd Division.
On the flip side of the coin, the southern representatives of Pattalung and Krabi, both top their respective groups. Pattalung made it three wins out of three as the beat Loei 3-1 while Krabi moved to the summit of Group B by inflicting Korat's first home league loss of the season with a 1-0 victory.
The Central and East duo of Ratchaburi and Rayong can also be pleased with their starts. Ratchburi sit in second place in Group A after their 1-1 draw with Kasetsart at the Supachlasai Stadium. Rayong have yet to concede a goal and they moved into third place in Group B with a narrow 1-0 victory over North Bangkok at the Chulalongkorn Stadium.
Many predicted the champions of the north, Phitsanoluk, and the northeastern top dogs, Roi Et, would be challenging for promotion. So far they have only three points each after three games. Phitsanoluk's latest disappointment was a 2-1 loss at pointless Phichit. Roi Et came from behind to earn their first three points with a 3-2 victory over Lamphun Warriors. Out of the two sides, the White Squirrels look more likely candidates to make up ground on the top 2 in their group.
The floods from the northern Bangkok spill finally hit the Kasetsart University campus over the weekend. If things weren't already bad enough for the Nagas on the football front, they've been hit with another blow as they'll almost certainly be unable to return to their home stadium for the rest of the campaign.
*Results, fixtures and latest standings of both groups can be found by clicking the link at the top righthandside of the blog under "League Tables."
The blogger would like to thank "thai-fussball.de" for providing the information.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Kasetsart 1-1 Ratchaburi
Kasetsart kept their slim hopes of promotion to Division 1 alive after they equalised late on to cancel out a controversial goal from Ratchaburi.
They game was switched at the last minute from the Thephasadin to the Supachalasi as there were supposed to be many evacuees from the Thai floods being granted free admission to the game, and the larger stadium was the preferred venue. I didn't see many evacuees, but the match was noteworthy for the attendance of several TPL foreign players.
For 70 minutes today, this game was sailing along inconspicuously towards a goalless stalemate.
That changed with 20 minutes remaining when David Bayiha opened the scoring. As Kasetsart broke from defence, Bayiha lay pole-axed just outside the Bangkok side's box. The attack broke down and as Ratchaburi attacked, the striker still lay motionless in the box. Once the attack reached the penalty box, the injured player, just like the Eddie Murphy character in Trading Places, could miraculously walk again, and he rose to smash Hassan's cut back into the net.
Kasetsart's coach, Phanipol, knew his sides promotion hopes were evaporating and in desperation, he tried to pull his team off the pitch. The game was delayed for about 6 minutes until the beleaguered coach allowed his players to restart the game.
In my opinion, the referee was correct to award the goal as under the letter of the law, Bayiha wasn't interfering with play when Ratchaburi attacked, and by the time he got to his feet, he was onside. However under the rules of fair play, his actions were disgraceful!! He should have been ashamed of himself, but he seemed to celebrate his goal without any hint of remorse. On the other hand, Kasetsart should just have got on with the game rather than try to stage a walk off. It's pointless and childish!!
On 86 minutes, or 80 if you don't count the delay, Kasetsart equalised when the unmarked Supramit netted from the back post after a ball from the right hadn't been cleared by Ratchaburi.
The action wasn't over as both keepers had to produce acrobatic saves to keep the game at 1-1 in the dying minutes.
Overall 1-1 was a fair result. Kasetsat have 7 games left and probably need 6 wins if they wish to secure promotion. It's looks doubtful as they seem to lack striking options upfront. Ratchaburi on the other hand, have decent strikers and I reckon they'll be good enough to finish in the top 2.
 |
| Leandro and Alves |
For 70 minutes today, this game was sailing along inconspicuously towards a goalless stalemate.
That changed with 20 minutes remaining when David Bayiha opened the scoring. As Kasetsart broke from defence, Bayiha lay pole-axed just outside the Bangkok side's box. The attack broke down and as Ratchaburi attacked, the striker still lay motionless in the box. Once the attack reached the penalty box, the injured player, just like the Eddie Murphy character in Trading Places, could miraculously walk again, and he rose to smash Hassan's cut back into the net.
 |
| Time for a walk off |
Kasetsart's coach, Phanipol, knew his sides promotion hopes were evaporating and in desperation, he tried to pull his team off the pitch. The game was delayed for about 6 minutes until the beleaguered coach allowed his players to restart the game.
In my opinion, the referee was correct to award the goal as under the letter of the law, Bayiha wasn't interfering with play when Ratchaburi attacked, and by the time he got to his feet, he was onside. However under the rules of fair play, his actions were disgraceful!! He should have been ashamed of himself, but he seemed to celebrate his goal without any hint of remorse. On the other hand, Kasetsart should just have got on with the game rather than try to stage a walk off. It's pointless and childish!!
 |
| Super save |
The action wasn't over as both keepers had to produce acrobatic saves to keep the game at 1-1 in the dying minutes.
Overall 1-1 was a fair result. Kasetsat have 7 games left and probably need 6 wins if they wish to secure promotion. It's looks doubtful as they seem to lack striking options upfront. Ratchaburi on the other hand, have decent strikers and I reckon they'll be good enough to finish in the top 2.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Weekend Preview - Saturday 29th October
This weekend has all the hallmarks of a bleak winter's Saturday back in the UK. Back in the days before Sky Sports, just about every game kicked off at 3pm on a Saturday, and the highlight of the afternoon was watching the videprinter on Grandstand at 4.45pm. But on those Saturdays when 90% of the games were called off due to snow and frost, there would be no vidiprinter and you'd have to wait for the pools panel verdict for some amusement. The funny thing was when your team was awarded a win by the panel, you'd cheer. However when giving a loss, abuse was hurled at the direction of the TV.....or was that just me???
Anyway back in modern day Thailand, with the flooding situation here, only 4 games have survived this weekend. Granted many of the fixtures were already cancelled for the SEA Games.
The last surviving TPL game between Sisaket and Chonburi was given its rain check today. Pool panel verdict: Score draw
Division 2 Champions League
(Group A)
Kasesart v Ratchaburi
(Group B)
North Bangkok v Rayong
Roi Et v Lamphun
Korat v Krabi
The only game taking place in Group A is Kasetsart v Ratchaburi. The other two games between Pattalung v Loei City and Phichit v Phitsanoluk have been postponed. Kasetsart will face Ratchaburi at the Thephasadin Stadium on Saturday as their home ground at their university campus is about to be submerged with flood water. Another loss for the Nagas would surely see their Division 1 ambitions sunk too. This will be Ratchaburi's first away game in Group A.
In Group B, the big game takes place between the top 2 sides of Korat and Krabi. A win for Korat could see them potentially move 5 points clear at the top of the group. Similar to Kasetsart, North Bangkok will also be using another venue to host their match with Rayong FC. The Chulalongkorn University Stadium will be the fourth different home stadium used by North Bangkok this season. Rayong have drawn their first two games and it wouldn't surprise me if they complete a trio of draws after this one. The Lamphun Warriors have hardly set their home arena alight as they have whimpered to two goalless draws. They'll travel to the Roi Et coliseum to battle a team that has put every opponent to the sword this season. (Sorry "Nakhon Ratchasima FC", you can have the credit for the 3 points, but not the victory, lol!!)
Midweek FA Cup Results
Army 2-1 Chonburi
Muangthong 1-1 Bangkok Glass (MTU won 5-4 on pens)
Muangthong will travel to Pattaya for their last 16 tie.
Police Utd v Buriram PEA (Walkover to PEA as Police Utd failed to turn up)
It's a long story. Can't be arsed going into it!!
Anyway back in modern day Thailand, with the flooding situation here, only 4 games have survived this weekend. Granted many of the fixtures were already cancelled for the SEA Games.
The last surviving TPL game between Sisaket and Chonburi was given its rain check today. Pool panel verdict: Score draw
Division 2 Champions League
(Group A)
Kasesart v Ratchaburi
(Group B)
North Bangkok v Rayong
Roi Et v Lamphun
Korat v Krabi
The only game taking place in Group A is Kasetsart v Ratchaburi. The other two games between Pattalung v Loei City and Phichit v Phitsanoluk have been postponed. Kasetsart will face Ratchaburi at the Thephasadin Stadium on Saturday as their home ground at their university campus is about to be submerged with flood water. Another loss for the Nagas would surely see their Division 1 ambitions sunk too. This will be Ratchaburi's first away game in Group A.
In Group B, the big game takes place between the top 2 sides of Korat and Krabi. A win for Korat could see them potentially move 5 points clear at the top of the group. Similar to Kasetsart, North Bangkok will also be using another venue to host their match with Rayong FC. The Chulalongkorn University Stadium will be the fourth different home stadium used by North Bangkok this season. Rayong have drawn their first two games and it wouldn't surprise me if they complete a trio of draws after this one. The Lamphun Warriors have hardly set their home arena alight as they have whimpered to two goalless draws. They'll travel to the Roi Et coliseum to battle a team that has put every opponent to the sword this season. (Sorry "Nakhon Ratchasima FC", you can have the credit for the 3 points, but not the victory, lol!!)
Midweek FA Cup Results
Army 2-1 Chonburi
Muangthong 1-1 Bangkok Glass (MTU won 5-4 on pens)
Muangthong will travel to Pattaya for their last 16 tie.
Police Utd v Buriram PEA (Walkover to PEA as Police Utd failed to turn up)
It's a long story. Can't be arsed going into it!!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Army United 2-1 Chonburi
Army United booked their place in the last 8 of the Thai FA Cup as they knocked out current holders Chonburi 2-1.
The Bangkok side produced one of their best performances since the early days of the season to beat a sluggish looking Chonburi side.
Army United had the better of the first half, but they failed to pierce the Shark's rearguard early on as their final ball from midfield lacked quality and they kept getting caught offside.
On 33 minutes, Army's attacking persistence paid off when Leandro impishly got between the two Chonburi central defenders and managed to squeeze a shot under Sintaweechai's body. The current Thai number one will be disappointed that he didn't keep out the Brazilians effort.
After the break, Chonburi made a couple of changes and their game improved. The Sharks had a couple of half chances, but the Army seemed to be whittling the clock down with the aid of constant treatment for injured players.
Just as the Blue Blood had almost given up hope, Pipob popped up with one of his customary headers to level matters with 5 minutes left on the clock.
The relief of the travelling support only lasted a couple minutes as second half substitute, Kraisorn, broke free of the Chonburi defence and coolly slotted the ball into the net for the winner.
With virtually the last kick of the game, Leandro received his second yellow card for petulantly blocking a Chonburi free-kick in their own half from 2 yards. That dismissal may come back to haunt the Home of Gentlemen in the next round.
Despite their antics, Army United deserved the win and they'll be hoping that they can carry this form over to the league performances.
As for Chonburi, their four pronged attack on the TPL, TLC, AFC Cup an FA Cup has unfortunately disappeared. It's now time to rebuild and focus on the 2012 season.
The Bangkok side produced one of their best performances since the early days of the season to beat a sluggish looking Chonburi side.
Army United had the better of the first half, but they failed to pierce the Shark's rearguard early on as their final ball from midfield lacked quality and they kept getting caught offside.
On 33 minutes, Army's attacking persistence paid off when Leandro impishly got between the two Chonburi central defenders and managed to squeeze a shot under Sintaweechai's body. The current Thai number one will be disappointed that he didn't keep out the Brazilians effort.
After the break, Chonburi made a couple of changes and their game improved. The Sharks had a couple of half chances, but the Army seemed to be whittling the clock down with the aid of constant treatment for injured players.
Just as the Blue Blood had almost given up hope, Pipob popped up with one of his customary headers to level matters with 5 minutes left on the clock.
The relief of the travelling support only lasted a couple minutes as second half substitute, Kraisorn, broke free of the Chonburi defence and coolly slotted the ball into the net for the winner.
With virtually the last kick of the game, Leandro received his second yellow card for petulantly blocking a Chonburi free-kick in their own half from 2 yards. That dismissal may come back to haunt the Home of Gentlemen in the next round.
Despite their antics, Army United deserved the win and they'll be hoping that they can carry this form over to the league performances.
As for Chonburi, their four pronged attack on the TPL, TLC, AFC Cup an FA Cup has unfortunately disappeared. It's now time to rebuild and focus on the 2012 season.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Weekend Review 22/23 October
TPL
Pattaya 1-0 Sisaket
Bangkok Glass 1-2 Samut Songkhram
Thai Port 3-2 Navy
TOT 0-4 Buriram PEA
Chiang Rai Utd 4-3 Chonburi
TOT
remain one place above the relegation zone. Their last two home games
in the past three days have seen them concede four goals in each match.
It was a five star performance from Buriram PEA, and TOT have now lost
six home games this season.
Thai Port ended their goal drought of almost 500 minutes with a 3-2 victory over Siam Navy. The
victory was noticeable for the non-attendance of head coach, Thongchai
Sukkokee. The Klong Toei side still haven't scored a home TPL goal under
his tenureship.
Bangkok Glass's temporary stay at the Thephasadin Stadium was an unsuccessful one as lost 2-1 to Samut Songkhram.
Division 1
RBAC 1-0 Songkla
PTT Rayong 0-1 JW Rangsit
BBCU 1-0 Chiang Mai
Buriram FC 5-1 Chantaburi
Suphanburi 2-1 Thai Honda
Customs 2-3 Chainat
The
top 3 of Buriram, Chainat and BBCU all strengthened their positions
with victories at the weekend. Closest challengers Songkla and PTT
Rayong both lost. Incidentally, Buriram FC need only 6 points to book
their place in the TPL next season.
JW
Rangsit bought themselves some daylight from the relegation zone with
their second consecutive win. A late winner kept RBAC's survival hopes
alive too. Bottom placed, Thai Honda, lost again as it appears time is
running out for the Speed Kings.
Div 2 Champs League
(Group A)
Loei 1-0 Kasetsart
Ratchaburi 2-0 Phitsanoluk
Pattalung 2-0 Phichit
(Group B)
Krabi 1-0 Roi Et
Lamphun 0-0 Rayong
Korat 2-1 Nth Bangkok
A second successive 1-0 defeat for
Kasetsart, leaves them an uphill task to win promotion to Division 1.
Ratchaburi and Pattalung cemented their positions at the top of the
group with 2-0 victories.
North
Bangkok lost 2-1 at Korat. The damage was done in the first half as The
Horseman let Korat get their noses in front by conceding two goals.
North Bangkok did rally in the second half, but couldn't repair the
damage as they lost 2-1. Lamphun and Rayong was a stalemate. Both sides
have drawn their first two games 0-0. Krabi moved into second place
with a 1-0 victory over Roi Et whom are surprisingly rooted to the
bottom of the group at this stage.
FA Cup Fixtures
Army Utd v Chonburi (Last 16)
Muangthong v Bangkok Glass (Last 32)
The
last time both of these fixtures were played, they produced a grand
total of 15 goals. Chonburi edged out Army Utd 4-3 in June while
Muangthong destroyed Bangkok Glass 6-2 when they last met back in
August. Both ties take place on Wednesday.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Thai Port 3-2 Siam Navy
Thai Port beat Siam Navy 3-2 in an entertaining game that in all honesty wasn't one for the football purists. The 90 minutes were noticeable for the absence of Thai Port coach, Thongchai Sukkokee. Apparently he was "mai sabai" although I'm sure that wasn't the real reason for the bearded one's non attendance.
Within a couple of minutes, Navy could have been ahead, but Barbosa's effort hit the base of the post.
On 8 minutes, Thai Port ended their goal drought of almost 500 minutes when Ekkapoom squeezed a shot through the Navy keeper's legs from a narrow angle.
The much maligned, Kim Ba Wi, made an assist for Navy's equaliser. A clearance from Mario rebounded off the hapless Korean and Barbosa held him composure to even matters.
After the leveller, Navy were the better side. On 25 minutes Thai Port fortunately retook the lead. Ekkapoom's cross from the left was in my opinion deliberately punched by Jessada. Justice appeared to be done when his handball landed in his own net.
By the time the half time whistle had been blown, Thai Port were 2-1 up, but worryingly for Navy, they had used their 3 substitutes.
A few minutes after the break, Port were 3-1 up when Jacob found Ekkapoom, and he netted his second goal of the game.
The home side appeared to be holding out comfortably until Munze ran out from his line to collect a ball from a long hopeful punt. He must have thought he'd ran out of his box as he released the ball from his grasp too easily and his resultant blooper left Pisanil Zaa with the easy task off tapping the ball into the net.
The Klong Toei side held out for the victory despite surviving a couple of penalty claims. Ulrich Munze also redeemed himself by pulling off a couple of decent saves.
Thai Port are now 10 points above the drop zone. With only 8 games remaining, that should be just about enough to ensure TPL football for next season.
Siam Navy played some attractive stuff especially through their front pairing of Barbosa and Alex Ruela. However, defensively they look like they will leak goals.
Attendance: 1,800
Within a couple of minutes, Navy could have been ahead, but Barbosa's effort hit the base of the post.
On 8 minutes, Thai Port ended their goal drought of almost 500 minutes when Ekkapoom squeezed a shot through the Navy keeper's legs from a narrow angle.
The much maligned, Kim Ba Wi, made an assist for Navy's equaliser. A clearance from Mario rebounded off the hapless Korean and Barbosa held him composure to even matters.
After the leveller, Navy were the better side. On 25 minutes Thai Port fortunately retook the lead. Ekkapoom's cross from the left was in my opinion deliberately punched by Jessada. Justice appeared to be done when his handball landed in his own net.
By the time the half time whistle had been blown, Thai Port were 2-1 up, but worryingly for Navy, they had used their 3 substitutes.
A few minutes after the break, Port were 3-1 up when Jacob found Ekkapoom, and he netted his second goal of the game.
The home side appeared to be holding out comfortably until Munze ran out from his line to collect a ball from a long hopeful punt. He must have thought he'd ran out of his box as he released the ball from his grasp too easily and his resultant blooper left Pisanil Zaa with the easy task off tapping the ball into the net.
The Klong Toei side held out for the victory despite surviving a couple of penalty claims. Ulrich Munze also redeemed himself by pulling off a couple of decent saves.
Thai Port are now 10 points above the drop zone. With only 8 games remaining, that should be just about enough to ensure TPL football for next season.
Siam Navy played some attractive stuff especially through their front pairing of Barbosa and Alex Ruela. However, defensively they look like they will leak goals.
Attendance: 1,800
Saturday, October 22, 2011
RBAC 1-0 Songkla
A goalkeeping error by Songkla 12 minutes from time proved costly as RBAC snatched 3 vital points in their bid to avoid Division 2 football next season.
Songkla must have been on a high coming into this game after their 4-1 demolition of TPL side, TOT, in the FA Cup during the week.
Today's game was a scrappy affair and there were far too many free kicks and stoppages for injuries for the game to flow. It also doesn't help that the Rattana Bundit University pitch is possibly the tightest in the league.
RBAC's goalie, Nuttapon, was twice called into action late in the first half to produce saves to prevent Songkla taking the lead. The first was one for the cameras as he tipped a header from, Wittawat, over the bar, and the second was one he had to dive for to knock a shot around the post from Manop.
Songkla's best effort in the second period came in 72 minutes when a cross from the left was headed inches past the post by, Siroj, with the RBAC keeper rooted to the spot.
With 12 minutes left, the home side were awarded a free kick 25 yards out. The shot from the dead ball was scuffed by Eric Noah, but the bounce in front of Adirek in the Songkla goal confused him and the ball went through the unfortunate keeper into the net. The Cameroon defender celebrated with a combination of fortuity and delight. You had to feel for the keeper as his body language was disconsolate for the rest of the match. He knew his error had lost his side a possible 3 points.
RBAC are now 2 points from safety. They'll know they didn't play particularly well today, but it's games like these that they have to win if they wish to avoid the drop.
Songkla received another blow as BBCU beat Chiang Mai 1-0 today. They are now 14 points behind Zico's side although they do still have 3 games in hand.
Attendance: 460
Songkla must have been on a high coming into this game after their 4-1 demolition of TPL side, TOT, in the FA Cup during the week.
 |
| Two for the price of one |
RBAC's goalie, Nuttapon, was twice called into action late in the first half to produce saves to prevent Songkla taking the lead. The first was one for the cameras as he tipped a header from, Wittawat, over the bar, and the second was one he had to dive for to knock a shot around the post from Manop.
Songkla's best effort in the second period came in 72 minutes when a cross from the left was headed inches past the post by, Siroj, with the RBAC keeper rooted to the spot.
 |
| Gutted!! |
RBAC are now 2 points from safety. They'll know they didn't play particularly well today, but it's games like these that they have to win if they wish to avoid the drop.
Songkla received another blow as BBCU beat Chiang Mai 1-0 today. They are now 14 points behind Zico's side although they do still have 3 games in hand.
Attendance: 460
 |
| Final Score |
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Weekend Preview 22-23 October
TPL
Pattaya v Sisaket (Sat)
Bangkok Glass v Samut Songkhram (Sat)
Thai Port v Navy (Sun)
TOT v Buriram PEA (Sun)
Chiang Rai Utd v Chonburi (Sun)
Osotspa P-P TTM Phichit
The league schedule is once again lacking its full compliment of fixtures. I can understand the postponements because of the flooding, but is it really necessary to cancel matches for the SEA games which begin next month? There is already a fixture backlog to contend with for most clubs.
Only 3 Bangkok teams are in action this weekend. TOT have the difficult task of stopping the Buriram PEA juggernaut. They'll need to significantly improve on last night's 4-1 humping by 1st division Songkla if they are going to take anything from this one.
It's now over 480 minutes since Thai Port last scored a goal. Their last goal came against 2nd division Pattalung in the Toyota League Cup. Navy had a terrible start to the season, but they've improved in the last few weeks. A victory for Navy would move them to within 4 points of the Port Lions. Thai Port coach, Thongchai Sukkokee, may hedge his bets once again and set his stall out for another 0-0 draw.
According to various Thai football sites, Bangkok Glass will use the Thephasadin Stadium for their home game against Samut Songkhram this Saturday.
Division 1
RBAC v Songkla (Sat)
PTT Rayong v JW Rangsit (Sat)
BBCU v Chiang Mai (Sat)
Buriram FC v Chantaburi (Sat)
Suphanburi v Thai Honda (Sun)
Customs v Chainat (Sun)
Air Force v Saraburi (Sun)
Zico stated earlier this week that his stuttering BBCU side will still win promotion. The Pink Power have recently suffered lackluster 0-0 draws at home to lowly RBAC and Thai Honda. Chiang Mai are another side firmly in the relegation battle and the northern side might be quietly confident of getting something out of this game.
BBCU will be keeping an eye on the game at RBAC as closest contenders to their third spot, Songkla, visit the capital for the second time in three days. Songkla are currently 11 points behind BBCU albeit with 3 games in hand.
Elsewhere on Saturday, JW Rangsit travel down the coast to meet PTT Rayong.
On Sunday, I'd be surprised if all three game at Suphanburi, Air Force and Customs are played. All three stadiums are in the flood zone so expect postponements.
Div 2 Champs League
(Group A) (Saturday)
Loei v Kasetsart
Ratchaburi v Phitsanoluk
Pattalung v Phichit
(Group B) (Sunday)
Krabi v Roi Et
Lamphun v Rayong
Korat v Nth Bangkok
Kasetsart have generally fared better away from home this season. The away game at Loei will be seen as a 3 pointer. After last weeks defeat to Pattalung, the Nagas need to get points on the board. Another defeat could leave Kasetsart with a mountain to climb. The big clash this weekend is between pregroup favourites Ratchaburi and Phitsanoluk. In the other game, Pattalung will fancy their chances of taking 3 points at home to Phichit.
North Bangkok would have been satisfied with their opening day point up at Lamphun last week. A similar outcome at Korat would be another pleasing return for the Horsemen. Roi Et make the long journey down to Krabi. It is still unclear whether or not they were penalised for having 6 foreigners on the field against Korat last time out. One things for sure, they won't make the same mistake again. Lamphun and Rayong both drew their first games. It wouldn't surprise me if this is another stalemate.
Pattaya v Sisaket (Sat)
Bangkok Glass v Samut Songkhram (Sat)
Thai Port v Navy (Sun)
TOT v Buriram PEA (Sun)
Chiang Rai Utd v Chonburi (Sun)
Osotspa P-P TTM Phichit
The league schedule is once again lacking its full compliment of fixtures. I can understand the postponements because of the flooding, but is it really necessary to cancel matches for the SEA games which begin next month? There is already a fixture backlog to contend with for most clubs.
Only 3 Bangkok teams are in action this weekend. TOT have the difficult task of stopping the Buriram PEA juggernaut. They'll need to significantly improve on last night's 4-1 humping by 1st division Songkla if they are going to take anything from this one.
It's now over 480 minutes since Thai Port last scored a goal. Their last goal came against 2nd division Pattalung in the Toyota League Cup. Navy had a terrible start to the season, but they've improved in the last few weeks. A victory for Navy would move them to within 4 points of the Port Lions. Thai Port coach, Thongchai Sukkokee, may hedge his bets once again and set his stall out for another 0-0 draw.
According to various Thai football sites, Bangkok Glass will use the Thephasadin Stadium for their home game against Samut Songkhram this Saturday.
Division 1
RBAC v Songkla (Sat)
PTT Rayong v JW Rangsit (Sat)
BBCU v Chiang Mai (Sat)
Buriram FC v Chantaburi (Sat)
Suphanburi v Thai Honda (Sun)
Customs v Chainat (Sun)
Air Force v Saraburi (Sun)
Zico stated earlier this week that his stuttering BBCU side will still win promotion. The Pink Power have recently suffered lackluster 0-0 draws at home to lowly RBAC and Thai Honda. Chiang Mai are another side firmly in the relegation battle and the northern side might be quietly confident of getting something out of this game.
BBCU will be keeping an eye on the game at RBAC as closest contenders to their third spot, Songkla, visit the capital for the second time in three days. Songkla are currently 11 points behind BBCU albeit with 3 games in hand.
Elsewhere on Saturday, JW Rangsit travel down the coast to meet PTT Rayong.
On Sunday, I'd be surprised if all three game at Suphanburi, Air Force and Customs are played. All three stadiums are in the flood zone so expect postponements.
Div 2 Champs League
(Group A) (Saturday)
Loei v Kasetsart
Ratchaburi v Phitsanoluk
Pattalung v Phichit
(Group B) (Sunday)
Krabi v Roi Et
Lamphun v Rayong
Korat v Nth Bangkok
Kasetsart have generally fared better away from home this season. The away game at Loei will be seen as a 3 pointer. After last weeks defeat to Pattalung, the Nagas need to get points on the board. Another defeat could leave Kasetsart with a mountain to climb. The big clash this weekend is between pregroup favourites Ratchaburi and Phitsanoluk. In the other game, Pattalung will fancy their chances of taking 3 points at home to Phichit.
North Bangkok would have been satisfied with their opening day point up at Lamphun last week. A similar outcome at Korat would be another pleasing return for the Horsemen. Roi Et make the long journey down to Krabi. It is still unclear whether or not they were penalised for having 6 foreigners on the field against Korat last time out. One things for sure, they won't make the same mistake again. Lamphun and Rayong both drew their first games. It wouldn't surprise me if this is another stalemate.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Thai Port 0-2 Bangkok Glass (AET)
Bangkok Glass earned a chance to avenge their 6-2 thumping at Muangthong United a few weeks ago as they defeated Thai Port 2-0 after extra time in the third round of the Thai FA Cup.
The home side started with a 4-4-2 rather than their usual defensive 4-5-1 and early on they forced chances. Ekkapoom burst through within minutes of the opening whistle, but hit a week finish, and a Todsapol header from a corner went inches over the bar midway through the half.
Thai Port played some attacking football initially but they lost momentum after 3 quick successive stoppages in play to treat the injured Worawut.
BG would have been disappointed with their first half showing although the upped their game after the break. They dominated territory even if they never really tested Thai Port's 3rd choice keeper Narong.
As the game was heading for extra time, the contest notably livened up. Jacob Aikhionbare could have scored a late winner when he was clear through but he preferred to fall in the box rather than shoot. The ball incidentally fell nicely for Sarawut yet he shot wide. In injury time, Sarayoot twice made Narong pull off saves.
The game went into extra time and within a couple of minutes BG broke the deadlock. A long corner from the right was headed back across the goal and Glass' captain, Amnaj, nodded in the knock back.
Thai Port never looked like getting back into the contest and the game was wrapped up near the end of the extra period when Sarayoot netted a rebound after Peter Lang's shot had rebounded off the bar.
From Thai Port's point of view the opening half hour was encouraging, but they seemed to lack ideas once their creative period had ended. The absence of options from the bench also didn't help matters.
As for Bangkok Glass, they'll be happy with the result despite playing a bit negative in the opening period. Overall they probably deserved to advance to the next round, but they'll know they have to play better if they want to beat Muangthong next week.
Attendance: I thought I heard 5,400 but I could be wrong
The home side started with a 4-4-2 rather than their usual defensive 4-5-1 and early on they forced chances. Ekkapoom burst through within minutes of the opening whistle, but hit a week finish, and a Todsapol header from a corner went inches over the bar midway through the half.
Thai Port played some attacking football initially but they lost momentum after 3 quick successive stoppages in play to treat the injured Worawut.
BG would have been disappointed with their first half showing although the upped their game after the break. They dominated territory even if they never really tested Thai Port's 3rd choice keeper Narong.
As the game was heading for extra time, the contest notably livened up. Jacob Aikhionbare could have scored a late winner when he was clear through but he preferred to fall in the box rather than shoot. The ball incidentally fell nicely for Sarawut yet he shot wide. In injury time, Sarayoot twice made Narong pull off saves.
The game went into extra time and within a couple of minutes BG broke the deadlock. A long corner from the right was headed back across the goal and Glass' captain, Amnaj, nodded in the knock back.
Thai Port never looked like getting back into the contest and the game was wrapped up near the end of the extra period when Sarayoot netted a rebound after Peter Lang's shot had rebounded off the bar.
From Thai Port's point of view the opening half hour was encouraging, but they seemed to lack ideas once their creative period had ended. The absence of options from the bench also didn't help matters.
As for Bangkok Glass, they'll be happy with the result despite playing a bit negative in the opening period. Overall they probably deserved to advance to the next round, but they'll know they have to play better if they want to beat Muangthong next week.
Attendance: I thought I heard 5,400 but I could be wrong
Monday, October 17, 2011
Weekend Review 15/16 October
TPL
Khon Kaen 2-0 Army
Chonburi 0-0 Police
Muangthong 4-1 Chiang Rai
Pattaya 0-0 BEC Tero
TOT 2-1 Navy
Robbie Fowler earned his first home win as Muangthong coach and also netted his first goal in MTU colours with a header in the opening period. The Qilins moved to within 6 points of Buriarm PEA as they cruised to a 4-1 over Chiang Rai United.
At the deserted IPE Stadium in Chonburi, Police United earned a decent point as the Sharks title bid appears to be a now distant memory. Bottom placed Khon Kaen achieved a rare victory with two second half goals to defeat Army United while TOT moved out of the relegation zone with a 2-1 home win over Siam Navy. In the other game, Pattaya drew 0-0 with BEC Tero.
Division 1
Bangkok Utd 3-2 PTT Rayong
RBAC 1-2 Chiang Mai
JW Rangsit 3-2 Bangkok FC
Air Force 0-1 Buriram FC
BBCU 0-0 Thai Honda
Phuket 1-0 Customs
Chainat 5-0 Chantaburi
RBAC's recent good run came to an end as they lost at home to Chiang Mai. JW Rangsit moved out of the relegation placings with a 3-2 over Bangkok FC. Paul Takem and Lee Tuck both netted braces, but it was the JW man who stole the plaudits with an injury time winner.
The curse of the Thai-Japanese Stadium has vanished as Bangkok United finally won a game in Din Daeng at the 24th time of asking. The 3-2 victory was coincidentally the their first match under their new coach.
Only 325 spectators could be bothered to turn up to watch BBCU draw 0-0 with bottom placed Thai Honda. On reading the previous sentence, the vast majority of neutral fans wouldn't shed a tear if BBCU failed to win promotion to the TPL. It wasn't long ago that the Division 1 title was a two horse race between BBCU and Buriram FC. The Lava's latest success was a 1-0 victory at Air Force. To make matters worse for BBCU, Chainat moved into second spot with a 5-0 demolition of Chantaburi.
Division 2 Champions League
(Group A)
Kasetsart 0-1 Pattalung
Ratchaburi 2-0 Phichit
Phitsanoluk 1-0 Loei City
(Group B)
Roi Et 2-1 Korat
Rayong 0-0 Krabi
Lamphun 0-0 Nth Bangkok
It was a disappointing opening for Kasetsart as they went down 1-0 at home to Pattalung. Reports indicate that Kaset had more shots and possession but lacked the spark in the final third. In the other two matches Ratchaburi and Phitsanoluk won as predicted, but they were both made to work for their victories by Phichit and Loei City respectively.
Rumours have surfaced today that Roi Et will penalised for breaching the 5 foreign players rule. It would be a shame for the White Squirrels after their impressive 2-1 win over Korat. However, Korat were docked 9 points earlier in the season for fielding an ineligible player, so if Roi Et have broken the rules, they deserved to be punished. The other 2 games ended in 0-0 stalemates.
Khon Kaen 2-0 Army
Chonburi 0-0 Police
Muangthong 4-1 Chiang Rai
Pattaya 0-0 BEC Tero
TOT 2-1 Navy
Robbie Fowler earned his first home win as Muangthong coach and also netted his first goal in MTU colours with a header in the opening period. The Qilins moved to within 6 points of Buriarm PEA as they cruised to a 4-1 over Chiang Rai United.
At the deserted IPE Stadium in Chonburi, Police United earned a decent point as the Sharks title bid appears to be a now distant memory. Bottom placed Khon Kaen achieved a rare victory with two second half goals to defeat Army United while TOT moved out of the relegation zone with a 2-1 home win over Siam Navy. In the other game, Pattaya drew 0-0 with BEC Tero.
Division 1
Bangkok Utd 3-2 PTT Rayong
RBAC 1-2 Chiang Mai
JW Rangsit 3-2 Bangkok FC
Air Force 0-1 Buriram FC
BBCU 0-0 Thai Honda
Phuket 1-0 Customs
Chainat 5-0 Chantaburi
RBAC's recent good run came to an end as they lost at home to Chiang Mai. JW Rangsit moved out of the relegation placings with a 3-2 over Bangkok FC. Paul Takem and Lee Tuck both netted braces, but it was the JW man who stole the plaudits with an injury time winner.
The curse of the Thai-Japanese Stadium has vanished as Bangkok United finally won a game in Din Daeng at the 24th time of asking. The 3-2 victory was coincidentally the their first match under their new coach.
Only 325 spectators could be bothered to turn up to watch BBCU draw 0-0 with bottom placed Thai Honda. On reading the previous sentence, the vast majority of neutral fans wouldn't shed a tear if BBCU failed to win promotion to the TPL. It wasn't long ago that the Division 1 title was a two horse race between BBCU and Buriram FC. The Lava's latest success was a 1-0 victory at Air Force. To make matters worse for BBCU, Chainat moved into second spot with a 5-0 demolition of Chantaburi.
Division 2 Champions League
(Group A)
Kasetsart 0-1 Pattalung
Ratchaburi 2-0 Phichit
Phitsanoluk 1-0 Loei City
(Group B)
Roi Et 2-1 Korat
Rayong 0-0 Krabi
Lamphun 0-0 Nth Bangkok
It was a disappointing opening for Kasetsart as they went down 1-0 at home to Pattalung. Reports indicate that Kaset had more shots and possession but lacked the spark in the final third. In the other two matches Ratchaburi and Phitsanoluk won as predicted, but they were both made to work for their victories by Phichit and Loei City respectively.
Rumours have surfaced today that Roi Et will penalised for breaching the 5 foreign players rule. It would be a shame for the White Squirrels after their impressive 2-1 win over Korat. However, Korat were docked 9 points earlier in the season for fielding an ineligible player, so if Roi Et have broken the rules, they deserved to be punished. The other 2 games ended in 0-0 stalemates.
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