Div 2 Playoffs - The Final Standings

Group A

Luk Esan 1-0 Kasetsart
Phitsanulok 1-0 Prachuap
Roi Et Utd 3-1 Nara Utd

Final Standings:
25 Roi Et Utd
19 Phitsanulok
12 Kasetsart
12 Nara Utd
9 Luk Esan
5 Prachuap


Roi Et Utd and Phitsanulok finished just as they started with respective victories over Nara Utd and Prachuap. Diego Alves scored twice for the White Squirrels in their 3-1 victory over Nara Utd. In between his goals Ronnachai added a second for Roi Et while Francis Dumaka scored Nara's goal from a penalty kick.
A free kick from Gil Neves on the stroke of half time separated Phitsanulok and Prachuap while Luk Esan also only needed one goal to defeat Kasetsart.

Group B

Ang Thong 2-0 Paknampho NSRU
Chiang Mai 2-1 Nakhon Nayok
Udon Thani 0-1 Sukhothai

Final Standings:
20 Chiang Mai
17 Ang Thong
16 Sukhothai
15 NSRU
9 Udon Thani
7 Nakhon Nayok

The promotion showdown between Ang Thong and Paknampho NSRU ended in farcical circumstances. Ang Thong were awarded a 2-0 win after NSRU failed to return to the pitch after walking off in the 42nd minute. The Nakhon Sawan side were outraged when the referee awarded a penalty against them and then subsequently reduced them to ten players in the melee that followed. In NSRU's defence, it was a blatant dive for the spot kick and they did have a debatable offside ruling against them which prevented them taking a 1-0 lead. However, I can't defend them for throwing the towel in even if they thought the referee had been bought. In the football culture in which I grew up, you give it your best shot and fight to the end even if everything seems to be going against you. At least then you can walk away with your head held high. What Paknampho NSRU did was take the coward's way out. Not only did they let the players and fans down, they also did Sukhothai an injustice as they could have earned promotion had this game ended in a tie.

Anyway, Sukhothai's 1-0 win at Udon Thani wouldn't have been enough but I'm guessing news filtered through to them during the game about the shenanigans at Ang Thong. Sukhothai's winning goal came courtesy of a free kick from club captain Junsom.
Chiang Mai wrapped up the group title with a 2-1 victory over Nakhon Nayok. Chatchai was yet again on the scoresheet with a goal in each half for the Lanna Tigers. The visitors grabbed a late goal but it was a mere consolation.

To conclude the formalities, Chiang Mai will face Roi Et Utd over two legs to decide who wins the Champions league. The real issue of promotion has already been achieved but the two deciders give narcissistic, hi-so individuals connected with each club an opportunity to plaster their faces all over the relevant media landscape.

Div 2 Playoffs - Matchday 10

Group A - Sunday

Luk Esan v Kasetsart
Phitsanulok v Prachuap
Roi Et Utd v Nara Utd

Current Standings:
22 Roi Et Utd
16 Phitsanulok
12 Kasetsart
12 Nara Utd
6 Luk Esan
5 Prachuap

There will be no dramatic last day heroics in Group A as it's all done and dusted. In my opinion, it's been a formality since Matchday 2 that Roi Et and Phitsanulok would prevail from this pool.

Group B - Saturday

Ang Thong v Paknampho NSRU
Chiang Mai v Nakhon Nayok
Udon Thani v Sukhothai

Current Standings:
17 Chiang Mai
15 NSRU
14 Ang Thong
13 Sukhothai
9 Udon Thani
7 Nakhon Nayok

Throughout the playoffs, Group B has been far more rousing than Group A and plenty of last day furore is anticipated. With Chiang Mai safely promoted, Ang Thong and Paknampho NSRU will battle it out on Saturday for that last remaining golden ticket. The winner of this match will join the other three clubs in the division one bound glass elevator. However, if it's a tie between the dueling duo, Sukhothai could slip into the top 2 if they have beaten Udon Thani by at least three goals.
All matches will kick off at 4pm.

Div 2 Playoffs - Matchday 9 Review

Group A

Kasetsart 4-1 Nara Utd
Prachuap 0-0 Luk Esan
Roi Et Utd 1-1 Phitsanulok

Current Standings:
22 Roi Et
16 Phitsanulok
12 Kasetsart
12 Nara Utd
6 Luk Esan
5 Prachuap

Roi Et and Phitsanulok both had reasons to be cheerful after their 1-1 draw. The point was enough for Roi Et to claim top spot in Group A and for Phitsanulok they finally progressed from the playoffs at the third time of asking. Diego Alves had given Roi Et a first half lead but that was cancelled out when Sirichai headed home in the second period.
Kasetsart moved into third place after the beat Naru Utd 4-1 while a 0-0 stalemate between Prachuap and Luk Esan perfectly sums up their contribution to the group.

Group B

Nakhon Nayok 3-4 Sukhothai
Paknampho NSRU 2-0 Chiang Mai
Udon Thani 1-4 Ang Thong

Current Standings:
17 Chiang Mai
15 NSRU
14 Ang Thong
13 Sukhothai
9 Udon Thani
7 Nakhon Nayok

The three teams in pursuit of that elusive second promotion spot all won to set up a nail biting last weekend.
Ang Thong host NSRU next Saturday and the winner of the tie will secure promotion to the first division.
Paknampho NSRU took advantage of a Chiang Mai side who are already assured promotion with a 2-0 home victory. A first half Tanawat free kick and a second half penalty converted by Rewat earned the Nakhon Sawan club three vital points.
Ang Thong ended any lingering hopes Udon Thani had with an impressive 4-1 victory. A double apiece from Khampheng and Viliam ensured the Rice Warriors have their destiny in their own hands for the big showdown with NSRU on the final matchday.
The comeback of the day came at Nakhon Nayok. With ten minutes left, Sukhothai were trailing 3-1 and seemingly their season was ending prematurely. However, three late goals helped them turnaround the tie and it kept their slim hopes of sneaking into second spot alive. They need Ang Thong and NSRU to draw next weekend and in correspondence they have to win handsomely at Udon Thani.

Div 2 Playoffs - Matchday 9 Preview

Division 2 Playoffs

Group A - Sunday

Kasetsart v Nara Utd
Prachuap v Luk Esan
Roi Et Utd v Phitsanulok

Current Standings:
21 Roi Et
15 Phitsanulok
12 Nara Utd
9 Kasetsart
5 Luk Esan
4 Prachuap

Roi Et Utd confirmed promotion last weekend and now they only need a point at home to Phitsanulok to secure the top berth in Group A. Phitsanulok's surprise loss at Luk Esan last Sunday leaves them still needing three points to join Roi Et in the first division next year. The club from the northern region possess a superior H2H record over third placed Nara Utd. In addition to that, a home fixture against Prachuap in the final round leaves Phitsanulok strong favorites to accompany the White Squirrels in climbing up the tiers.
Nara Utd slipped up last weekend when the were held at home by lowly Prachuap. The Kolaks have two away matches to finish off their campaign with Kasetsart on Sunday followed by Roi Et next weekend.

Group B - Saturday

Nakhon Nayok v Sukhothai
Paknampho NSRU v Chiang Mai
Udon Thani v Ang Thong

Current Standings:
17 Chiang Mai
12 NSRU
11 Ang Thong
10 Sukhothai
9 Udon Thani
7 Nakhon Nayok

With Chiang Mai already securing promotion, the big question now is who will join them. NSRU welcome the Division 1 bound club on Saturday and a win for the university side would leave them in prime contention to join the Lanna Tigers in making the leap up. However, failure to secure three points would open things up for the trio lingering closely in their footsteps.
Udon Thani can boast a 100% record of winning their three home games yet they'll be dismayed that they've collected zilch from five away trips. With two home games against Ang Thong and Sukhothai remaining, 15 points could be enough to secure promotion.
Sukhothai got of to a flying start in the group with two wins but it's been six games sine they last registered a success. Incidentally their last win was a 1-0 over this weekend's opponents Nakhon Nayok.

Weekend Review 23/24 November

League Cup Final

Ratchaburi 1-2 Buriram Utd

Buriram United came from behind to win the League Cup and hence made another clean sweep of the domestic trophies for the second time in three seasons.
Former Buriram man, Douglas Gardozo, headed Ratchaburi in front in the 10th minute. The Brazilian then turned from hero to villain when he was ordered off two minutes into the second half for elbowing Manuel Redondo in the face. The incident took place in the box and the Dragons were punished further when Osmar tucked his penalty into the bottom corner of the net.
From then on, there was only ever going to be one winner. The winning goal came in the 64th minute after Adisak easily beat his marker before slotting home. The matchwinner's day was slightly spoiled when he was given a second yellow card deep into injury time for needlessly playing on after the referee had whistled to stop the action. It didn't matter and Buriram picked up a handsome cheque for 5M Baht along with the trophy.

Division 2 Playoffs

Group A

Kasetsart 0-1 Roi Et Utd
Luk Esan 1-0 Phitsanulok
Nara Utd 0-0 Prachuap

Roi Et's away win at Kasetsart meant their fans were saying bye-bye to Division 2. Pradya's header from close range was the only goal for Roi Et as their large travelling support finally celebrated their elevation to the first division after their third attempt of negotiating the playoffs.
The shock of the day came at Luk Esan as they finally ended a barren 703 minute run of firing blanks. Vorraseth became the junior Police side's only scorer in the playoffs. It was even more surprising that Luk Esan beat Phitsanulok 1-0 as they played for over an hour of the match with ten men after Wanchalerm was dismissed.
Nara United blew a great chance to close in on Phitsanulok's failure as they were held 0-0 at home by Prachuap.

Group B

Chiang Mai 2-0 Ang Thong
Nakhon Nayok 2-1 Udon Thani
Sukhothai 1-1 Paknampo NSRU

Chiang Mai booked their place in the first division after a 2-0 victory over Ang Thong. A goal from Chatchai in each half won the contest for the Lanna Tigers. Chiang Mai are six points ahead of third placed Ang Thong with two games left to play and their superior H2H over the Rice Warriors ends Chiang Mai's two year stint in the regional leagues.
The draw between Sukhothai and Paknampo NSRU keeps both in the hunt but NSRU will be happier with the point as it leaves them in second place. An unmarked Brruno headed home the opening goal in the 30th minute but Paknampo levelled 12 minutes into the second half with Suphachai's curled shot.
Udon Thani suffered their fifth away defeat losing 2-1 at Nakhon Nayok. Two goals in as many minutes gave the hosts a 2-0 half time lead. Udon did pull one back through Satja but the defeat has left them three points behind second placed NSRU with two games left. 

Weekend Preview 23/24 November

League Cup Final

Ratchaburi v Buriram Utd (Saturday 17:45)

The Thammasart Stadium hosts a rerun of last year's league cup final. The showpiece in 2012 was a non-event as a spectacle with Buriram cruising to a 4-1 victory against a Ratchaburi side that had no listed substitutes on their bench. Ratchaburi were down to their bare bones because they had eight Buriram loanees on their books who were ineligible for the final.
This time, the Dragons should have a full compliment to select from. Nevertheless, on current form it's hard to foresee them lifting the trophy and Buriram are strongly fancied to retain the cup for a third successive season. Another win for Buriram would earn their second treble in three years and it would clinch their eighth domestic trophy from the last nine available.
The Thunder Castle have yet to face TPL opposition in the tournament this year seeing off Luk Esan, Kalasin, Siam Navy, Udon Thani and Rayong FC on route to the final.
Ratchaburi started their trail at Prachinburi before edging out Lamphun Warrior. The Dragons then smashed seven goals against Khon Kaen to reach the quarter finals where they disposed of the much fancied Chonburi. In the semi finals, Ratchaburi were rather fortunate to squeeze past Nakhon Ratchasima on away goals.

Division 2 Playoffs

Group A - Saturday

Kasetsart v Roi Et Utd
Luk Esan v Phisanulok (Sunday)
Nara Utd v Prachuap

Roi Et will secure promotion if they are successful at Kasetsart on Saturday while Phitsanulok could also claim a first division spot if they win at Luk Esan and Naru Utd fail to beat Prachuap.

Group B - Sunday

Chiang Mai v Ang Thong
Nakhon Nayok v Udon Thani
Sukhothai v Paknampo NSRU

With five points separating the top 5, there is still plenty to play for with three rounds of fixtures remaining. Chiang Mai have stumbled on the road in their last two games but they'll expect to get back to winning ways when they host Ang Thong. Three points for the Lanna Tigers would leave them on the brink of promotion. However, a loss would allow Ang Thong to join Chiang Mai on 14 points.
Udon Thani have lost all of their four away matches but they need to end that sequence by winning at bottom placed Nakhon Nayok.
Sukhothai haven't won in their last five attempts yet a win over Paknampo NSRU could see them jump back into the top 2 provided other results work in their favour. NSRU currently sit in second spot after two recent home wins.

Weekend Review 15-17 November

AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers - Group B

Friday

Thailand 0-3 Iran
Kuwait 0-0 Lebanon

Tuesday

Kuwait 3-1 Thailand
Lebanon 1-4 Iran

Current Standings (after 5 matches):
13 Iran
9 Kuwait
5 Lebanon
0 Thailand

Iran easily swept aside a lackluster Thai team with a 3-0 victory at the sparsely filled Rajamangala Stadium. The first half performance was one of the poorest displays in recent memory with soft defending gifting the Iranians a 2-0 lead. Iran seemed to take their foot off the gas after the break and Thailand improved but rarely tested the Iranian goalkeeper.
Substitute Puwadol was given a straight red card in injury time and shortly afterwards Iran added a third goal.

Edit: Results on Tuesday mean Iran and Kuwait qualify from Group B.

Div 2 Playoffs

Group A 

Pitsanulok 3-0 Nara Utd
Prachuap 2-2 Kasetsart
Roi Et Utd 4-0 Luk Esan

Results on Saturday left Roi Et and Phitsanulok certainties for promotion. The big clash of the round was comfortably won by Phitsanulok as they beat Nara Utd 3-0. Somlak gave the northern club the lead shortly after the half hour and that was doubled midway through the second half when Bani's drive found the bottom corner of the net. Gil Neves put the icing on the cake with a penalty in the last few minutes. The victory moves Phitsanulok four points ahead of third placed Nara Utd.
Roi Et are seven points clear of third place after they romped to a 4-0 victory over what appears to be a uninterested Luk Esan.  Erivaldo opened the scoring in the 24th minute before Kittisak doubled the advantage six minutes later. By half time it was game over when Erivaldo's penalty made it 3-0. The only goal of the second half came from Thongchai's header via a corner.
The 2-2 draw between Prachuap and Kasetsart extinguishes the Bangkok side's faint hopes of making it to Division 1.

Group B 

Ang Thong 1-1 Sukhothai
Paknampo NSRU 5-1 Nakhon Nayok
Udon Thani 2-1 Chiang Mai

If Group A is a forgone conclusion, Group B is anything but.
Udon Thani maintained their 100% home record after they consigned Chiang Mai to their first defeat. The away side started the brighter and they were rewarded in the 14th minute when Chatchai fired his shot inside the post. However, Satja drilled through a cluster of bodies to level shortly before the interval and Udon Thani's winner came nine minutes from time when Wiraphong curled home a free kick.
Paknampo NSRU moved into second place with a comprehensive 5-1 win over Nakhon Nayok. Rewit gave NSRU an early lead but that was wiped out in the 22nd minute when the unsuspecting Anurak was credited with an own goal after the ball bounced off his back following a goalkeeper fumble. It remained level until the midpoint of the second half but that changed when Rewit grabbed his second of the day. Tiene Moussa then headed into his own net before late goals from Camara Souleymane and Jaruwat completed the rout.
On Saturday, Ang Thong were seconds away from claiming a vital three points. Nuttawat had headed Ang Thong into a first half lead and it seemed as full time approached that the Rice Warriors had dug in for the win despite being under the cosh for the majority of the second half. Sukhothai didn't throw in the towel when Titi's 87th minute dismissal had them reduced to ten men. Instead the kept plugging away and they were rewarded in the 95th minute when Bruno headed a deserved leveller.
Chiang Mai remain top with 14 points with NSRU and Ang Thong on 11. They are closely followed by Sukhothai and Udon Thani on 9. Nakhon Nayok are well adrift at the bottom with 4. 

Weekend 15-19 November Preview

AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers - Group B

Friday

Thailand v Iran
Kuwait v Lebanon

Tuesday

Kuwait v Thailand
Lebanon v Iran

Current Standings (after 3 matches):
7 Iran
5 Kuwait
4 Lebanon
0 Thailand

As you can see from above, Thailand's task of qualifying is virtually dead and buried. Six points from the next two matches could shake things up, but that's as likely to happen as Shola Ameobi winning the EPL Golden Boot this season.
The national team's latest coach, Surachai Jaturapattarapong, won't have any of the SEA Games under 23 squad at his disposal while several of Winnie Schafer's favorites have also mysteriously vanished from the squad.
Rajamangala will host the Iran match before the squad fly out to Kuwait over the weekend.

Div 2 Playoffs

Group A - Saturday

Pitsanulok v Nara Utd
Prachuap v Kasetsart
Roi Et Utd v Luk Esan

The clash of the weekend comes at Phitsanulok as they welcome improving Nara United. The Violet Army have seen their favorites win all of their home games in the group yet two recent defeats on the road has seen Phitsanulok's substantial advantage whittled down to only one point. Nara United's foreign contingent has been largely responsible for their recent revival which has seen them win their last three matches. The winner of this match would head into the final straight as likely contenders to join Roi Et in the first division.
Roi Et will be much fancied to beat Luk Esan and another win would leave them on the cusp of securing promotion. Kasetsart are four points adrift of the top 2 and a win at Prachuap is essential if they are to keep their outside promotion hopes intact.

Group B - Sunday

Ang Thong v Sukhothai (now Saturday)
Paknampo NSRU v Nakhon Nayok
Udon Thani v Chiang Mai

As with Group A, the second placed side hosts the one below them in the standings. A home victory for Ang Thong over Sukhothai would move them five points clear of Sukhothai and it would almost certainly consign the northern club to another season of regional league football.
Paknampo NSRU are level on points with Sukhothai and they'll be looking to cash in on the Ang Thong v Sukhothai contest with a home victory over Nakhon Nayok who are currently propping up the table.
Udon Thani have won both of their home matches but they have a tough task preserving that 100% record when they welcome leaders Chiang Mai.

Buriram Claim FA Cup & Div 2 Round-up

FA Cup Final

Bangkok Glass 1-3 Buriram Utd

Buriram United claimed their third successive FA Cup as they came from behind to beat Bangkok Glass 3-1 at the Thammasart Stadium.
It was a sluggish start from the cup holders and they fell behind in the 17th minute when Chatree's shot from the edge of the box nestled in the bottom corner of the net.
Buriram were level on the half hour when a trip from Teerathep on the edge of the box was punished and Osmar Ibanez netted from the penalty spot.
After the break, Buriram took a stranglehold of the midfield and they went ahead in the 53rd minute when Carmelo Gonzalez headed past Narit in the BG goal.
By this stage Glass were being run ragged at the back and it was game over on the hour when Hirano nodded home Carmelo's cutback.
Buriram comfortably saw the game out as Bangkok Glass finished the final with ten men after Goran Subara was shown a second yellow in the 80th minute.
Buriram now have a two week break before they have the chance to complete the final piece of the domestic treble. Only Ratchaburi stand in their way in the League Cup final. 

Division 2 Playoffs

Group A

Kasetsart 1-0 Phitsanulok
Nara Utd 2-0 Luk Esan
Prachuap 0-1 Roi Et Utd

Results on Saturday opened up Group A. Kasetsart's 1-0 win over Phitsanulok leaves them four points behind second placed Phitsanulok with four to play. Late comers to the university campus would have missed an unmarked Manit netting the only goal of the contest. Kasetsart's Rungrot was the hero of the day as he saved a second half penalty to deny Somlak.
A late double from Njobato Abel earned Nara United a 2-0 win over struggling Luk Esan. That three points moves the Kolaks one point off the promotion spots.
Roi Et won 1-0 at Prachuap to move three points clear of Phitsanoluk at the top. Erivaldo was yet again the match winner for the White Squirrels scoring the only goal of the match at the beginning of the second half.

Group B

Nakhon Nayok 0-1 Ang Thong
Paknampo NSRU 2-1 Udon Thani
Sukhothai 2-2 Chiang Mai

Sukhothai and Chiang Mai fought out a pulsating 2-2 draw yesterday. A long range strike from Sittichai gave the hosts the lead after a quarter of an hour. The Fire Bats held that lead until midway through the second half before two goals in three minutes from Chiang Mai stunned the home support. Sukhothai drew level in the 76th minute when Sirisak headed home after the CM keeper had poorly misjudged a lofted ball into the box. Pornthep received a second yellow card as Chiang Mai finished the match with ten players.
The Lanna Tigers lead was cut to four points at the top after Ang Thong won 1-0 at Nakhon Nayok. Kampheng's 25 yard free kick in the 47th minute was the only goal a dominant Ang Thong could register. The Rice Warriors hit the bar three times and had two goals disallowed.
Paknampo NSRU ended a sticky patch with a 2-1 home victory over Udon Thani. The winning goal came on the hour with Thonwat curling a free kick directly into the net. NSRU and Sukhothai are two points behind Ang Thong.

Weekend Preview 9/10 November

FA Cup Final

Sunday

Bangkok Glass v Buriram Utd (Thammasart Stadium)

Since both clubs cocooned into their present day forms, Bangkok Glass have never beaten Buriram in 11 previous attempts. In fact, the 0-0 draw between the pair in July was the only time that Buriram have failed to win this showdown after they'd won the previous ten.
Buriram have dominated the domestic cup competitions recently and another win on Sunday would be their third successive FA Cup success. Their last defeat in this tournament came back in 2010 against Army.
Also the Thunder Castle have already bagged the TPL crown this season and victories in the FA Cup and League Cup would see them sweep the domestic treble for the second time in three seasons.
On route to the final Buriram have seen off Chainat, Samut Songkhram, Singh Tarua and pleasingly for them Muangthong United in the semi final. Bangkok Glass eliminated Chonburi in the third round with a 1-0 win after extra time. The Glass Rabbits then followed that up with narrow victories at Trat and Bangkok FC before they demolished Police United 5-2 at the Rajamangala Stadium.
The final also has some added spice with Bangkok Glass coach, Attaphol Buspakom, coming up against his former side. Attaphol was surprising axed minutes after Buriram secured their place in the AFC Champions League last 16. A dispute with the club owner saw him depart Buriram and he was quickly snapped up by Bangkok Glass. I'm guessing there will have been a sour taste left in Attaphol's mouth and winning the FA Cup would be sweet revenge for him.

Division 2 Playoffs

Group A - Saturday

Kasetsart v Phitsanulok
Nara Utd v Luk Esan
Prachuap v Roi Et Utd

Group B - Sunday

Nakhon Nayok v Ang Thong
Paknampo NSRU v Udon Thani
Sukhothai v Chiang Mai

In Group A, Nara Utd have won their last two matches to hoist themselves into contention. They currently sit four points behind leaders Phitsanulok and Roi Et Utd and they'll be expected to overcome a Luk Esan side who haven't tasted success yet in five attempts. The leading duo have away games which they'll fancy taking three points from. Roi Et are at Prachuap and Phitsanulok visit Kasetsart.

Chiang Mai have beaten Sukhothai three times already this season and another win over the Fire Bats would leave them on the brink of promotion. The northern champions have a six point gap at the top with five games left to play. The other five teams are so closely bunched together with only three points separating the five of them. It's all to play for as Nakhon Nayok host Ang Thong while Paknampo NSRU welcome Udon Thani.

Sunday 3 November Review

TPL

Sunday

BEC Tero 4-1 Army Utd
Buriram Utd 2-1 TOT
Chiang Rai Utd 4-2 Bangkok Utd
Muangthong Utd 2-2 Chainat
Osotspa Saraburi 1-4 Chonburi
Police Utd 1-2 Pattaya Utd
Samut Songkhram 2-2 Ratchaburi
Sisaket P-P Bangkok Glass
Songkhla Utd 2-1 Suphanburi

Despite winning 2-1 at Police United, it's Pattaya United that will drop to the first division for next season. The 2-2 draw between Samut Songkhram and Ratchaburi moved the pair on to 30 points which is one more than the Dolphins who finished on 29. Two quick goals from Obinna Darlington midway through the first period gave Pattaya a two goal lead before Murcy quickly replied grabbing the Crimson Cops a consolation.
In Samut Songkhram, the Raging Mackerels also took an early 2-0 lead but Ratchaburi fought back with two goals of their own after the interval. Both sides were content with a point each and the last ten minutes resembled the infamous Germany v Austria World Cup tie in 1982.

Buriram finished off the season unbeaten after they beat TOT 2-1. Kai Hirano and Suchao were on target for Buriram while Carmelo Gonzalez was dismissed 20 minutes from time for striking an opponent. Muangthong's 2-2 draw at home to Chainat meant that Buriram finished seven points ahead of their foes. The seven point gap in the final standings gives a more realistic reflection on how easy their title success has been.

Elsewhere there were 4-1 wins for Chonburi and BEC Tero. The Fire Dragons 4-1 win over Army snatched them a top 6 finish as they edged out a dejected Army into seventh.
Songkhla signed off the season beating Suphanburi 2-1 while Chiang Rai United's 4-2 over Bangkok United made it six wins out of seven for caretaker boss Anurak Srikerd. When he arrived, the Fighting Beetles were rock bottom. However, the Glass Rabbits coach guided them to a creditable 11th placed finish and surely the top brass at Chiang Rai should be pulling out all the stops to keep him at the club.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group B)

Ang Thong 2-2 Nakhon Nayok
Chiang Mai 2-1 Sukhothai
Udon Thani 2-0 Paknampo NSRU


Chiang Mai are running away with Group B after they beat Sukhothai 2-1 yesterday. The Lanna Tigers had to come from behind after Sukhothai had taken a surprise third minute lead. Machuca replied with a thirty yard stunner before Chatchai curled home a second half free kick to move Chiang Mai six points clear at the top of the group.

The rest of the teams are all clustered together with only three points separating the five of them. Second half goals courtesy of Thammawut and Yemi Joseph moved Udon Thani up to six points as they beat Paknampo NSRU 2-0.
Ang Thong staged a late recovery to snatch a point against Nakhon Nayok. With twenty minutes remaining, Nakhon Nayok were 2-0 up but a brace from Kampaeng earned Ang Thong a valuable point. The Rice Warriors are joint second with Sukhothai on seven points while Nakhon Nayok prop up the group with four points.

Saturday 2 November Review

Division 1

BBCU 2-2 Rayong Utd
Khon Kaen 1-3 Ayutthaya
Krabi 1-2 TTM
Nakhon Ratchasima 3-0 Phuket
PTT Rayong 2-2 Bangkok FC
Rayong FC 5-3 Nakhon Pathom Utd
Siam Navy 0-0 Trat
Singh Tarua 2-1 Air Force
Sriracha 2-1 Saraburi

So it's Singh Tarua and PTT Rayong who'll be joining Air Force in the TPL while it's Rayong FC who'll be accompanying their near neighbours, Rayong United, back to the regional leagues.

With Bangkok FC needing a win at PTT Rayong to claim promotion, things were seeming good at half time as they lead through Tawin's header. However, Kirati levelled from close range seconds after the restart and Weerayut broke the Bulligans' hearts seven minutes from time as his header snuck in at the near post. Lee Tuck netted from the spot in stoppage time but it was too late.

The draw between PTT Rayong and Bangkok FC allowed Singh Tarua to climb above PTT to finish in second place. Sarawut's 93rd minute winner ensured that Tarua beat Air force 2-1. Leandro had earlier netted from the penalty spot before Kittipoom levelled in the 86th minute. 

Going into yesterday's matches, Rayong FC knew they needed to win and then hope that either TTM or Sriracha hadn't. The Wild Horses did their part with a 5-3 win over Nakhon Pathom Utd but unfortunately for them TTM and Sriracha both triumphed. Sriracha were thankful to Chonburi loanees Ivan Boskovic and Irfan Bachdim while TTM's Yodsak was their savior with a winner eleven minutes from time at Krabi.
To rub salts into Rayong FC's wounds, they finished level with Khon Kaen on points but went down due to having an inferior H2H record. Had goal difference been the deciding factor, the Wild Horses would have stayed up.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group A)

Luk Esan 0-1 Nara Utd
Phitsanulok 1-0 Kasetsart
Roi Et Utd 1-0 Prachuap

After five matches, the big question now is can Nara Utd catch the runaway duo of Phitsanulok and Roi Et Utd. The pair moved onto 12 points after narrow 1-0 home victories. Diego's early goal was enough for Roi Et Utd while Sirichai's scrappy goal in the downpour won it for Phitsanulok.

Nara United's 1-0 win at Luk Esan keeps them four points off the pace at the top. Francis Dumaka was on the scoresheet again as his long range strike was the only goal of the contest.

Kasetsart, Luk Esan and Prachuap can basically start preparing for another season in the regional league

Matchday 34 Preview

TPL

Sunday

BEC Tero v Army Utd
Buriram Utd v TOT
Chiang Rai Utd v Bangkok Utd
Muangthong Utd v Chainat
Osotspa Saraburi v Chonburi
Police Utd v Pattaya Utd
Samut Songkhram v Ratchaburi
Sisaket P-P Bangkok Glass
Songkhla Utd v Suphanburi

The final weekend in correspondence with the majority of the season will hardly set the pulses racing for the neutral observer. The only issue remaining with consequence is the filling of the solitary relegation place. Pattaya United are three points adrift at the bottom and they need to win at Police United and then rely on results elsewhere going in their favor if they are to remain in the TPL. Samut Songkhram, Ratchaburi and Songkhla Utd are all locked on 29 points and the best outcome for Pattaya would be for Ratchaburi to win the derby at Samut Songkhram. If Samut Songkhram lost and Pattaya won then the Dolphins would survive.

The TPL crown went to Buriram last weekend and I'm sure celebrations will be in full flow at the Thunder Castle when they host TOT. Even though it took Buriram until the penultimate weekend to clinch the title, the championship race was won at a canter for them. Second placed Muanghtong have played well below par this year yet they still managed to finish miles infront of Chonburi in third who themselves will finish well ahead of Suphanburi in fourth. From my own point of view, I'm hoping other challengers will emerge for the TPL title race in 2014 or we could end up the Celtic/Rangers scenario with Buriram and Muangthong continuing to dominate the TPL for the impending future.

Division 1

Saturday

BBCU v Rayong Utd
Khon Kaen v Ayutthaya
Krabi v TTM
Nakhon Ratchasima v Phuket
PTT Rayong v Bangkok FC
Rayong FC v Nakhon Pathom Utd
Siam Navy v Trat
Singh Tarua v Air Force
Sriracha v Saraburi

In contrast, there is still plenty to play for in Division 1 at both ends of the league ladder. Six clubs enter the last round of fixtures with their destiny still undecided for 2014. By 8pm Saturday evening, four of them will be celebrating while two of them will be solemnly reflecting on their woes.
With Air Force already crowned champions, there are two remaining berths left to fill for the TPL promotion train. The PTT Rayong v Bangkok FC contest is simple to explain. If Bangkok FC win they go to the TPL whereas a win or draw for PTT Rayong will send them up. A loss for PTT could still see them promoted providing that Singh Tarua don't beat Air Force United.
The Klong Toei side are guaranteed promotion if they beat Air Force. If Tarua did lose, they'll still be promoted if Bangkok haven't won at PTT Rayong.

63 PTT Rayong
62 Singh Tarua
61 Bangkok FC

In the relegation scrap, it's one from Rayong FC, Sriracha and TTM who'll be accompanying Rayong United to the regional leagues next season.
Rayong FC currently occupy that unwanted placing and anything other than a home win against Nakhon Pathom Utd will see them relegated. However a win would keep them in the first division provided one of Sriracha or TTM hasn't won.
For Sriracha a victory keeps them up while a draw or a defeat would send them down if Rayong FC have beaten Saraburi.
A win for TTM would halt their second successive demotion. A point in Krabi  could be enough provided neither Sriracha or Rayong FC has won. TTM do have a better H2H over Sriracha so a TTM loss with a Rayong win and a Sriracha draw would send the Blue Marlins down.

35 TTM
34 Sriracha
33 Rayong FC

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group A - Saturday)

Luk Esan v Nara Utd
Phitsanulok v Kasetsart
Roi Et Utd v Prachuap

(Group B - Sunday)

Ang Thong v Nakhon Nayok
Chiang Mai v Sukhothai
Udon Thani v Paknampo NSRU

The playoffs approach the halfway stage as we've reached Matchday 5. This weekend's fixtures will then be reversed next time out as the runners turn towards home.

In Group A three home victories would open up a seven point gap at the top for Roi Et Utd and Phitsanulok. The closest challengers to the top pair, Kasetsart and Nara Utd, are four points behind and six points over the next two games are probably required if they are to be taken seriously as promotion candidates.

In the regional league northern section, Chiang Mai completed the double over Sukhothai. A repeat of that over the next two games would almost ensure that the 700th Anniversary Stadium will be welcoming Nakhon Ratchasima and BBCU next season.
The rest of the pack is tight and the double headers between Ang Thong v Nakhon Nayok and Udon Thani v NSRU will make or break the prospects' final outcome.

Sunday 27 October Review

TPL

Army Utd 1-0 Osotspa Saraburi
Bangkok Glass 2-1 Chainat
Bangkok Utd 0-2 Buriram Utd
BEC Tero 2-2 Muangthong United
Chonburi 4-0 Samut Songkhram
Pattaya Utd 0-1 Chiang Rai Utd
Ratchaburi 1-0 Police Utd
TOT 1-0 Songkhla Utd

Congratulations go to Buriram Utd after their 2-0 success at Bangkok United saw them crowned 2013 TPL champions. Second half goals from Jirawat and Osmar helped them over the line and maintained their unbeaten record this season. Their title victory has been fully merited and only the staunchest of MTU's supporters would beg to differ. While Buriram were toasting their success, Muangthong's fading title bid petered out in Minburi as they drew 2-2 with BEC Tero.

In the relegation scrap, it now seems increasingly likely that it will be Pattaya United taking the drop to Division 1. The reason for their 1-0 loss at home to Chiang Rai Utd was firmly pinned on the shoulders of the referee by the home supporters and the match officials were held in the stadium for two hours as disgruntled fans bayed for his blood.
The win for Chiang Rai keeps them up as did 1-0 wins for TOT and Ratchaburi. Chonburi finally ended a disappointing run of results against Samut Songkhram with a 4-0 victory.
After working out various head-to-head permutations, it appears that Samut Songkhram are the only side that Pattaya can overtake. The Raging Mackerels host neighbors Ratchaburi next Sunday knowing that one point will secure their future while Pattaya must win at Police Utd and hope that Ratchaburi can do them a massive favour.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group A)

Kasetsart 2-1 Prachuap
Luk Isan 0-1 Roi Et Utd
Nara Utd 3-1 Phitsanulok

Roi Et Utd moved to the top of the group with a tight 1-0 victory at Luk Esan. Erivaldo got the all important goal for the White Squirrels.
Phitsanulok dropped to second after they suffered a 3-1 loss at Nara United. The Kolaks can be thankful to their foreign contingent with Dumaka Francis netting twice and Njobato Abel grabbing the other. Nara's first win moves them onto five points, four behind the top two, and they are joined by Kasetsart after they beat Prachuap 2-1. Jakkaphan's superb volley won the Emerald Nagas their first points and keeps their distant promotion dreams simmering. Things appear bleak for Prachuap and Luk Esan with only two points apiece.

Saturday 26 October Review

Division 1

Air Force 1-1 Khon Kaen
Ayutthaya 2-1 Siam Navy
Bangkok FC 3-1 Krabi
Nakhon Pathom 2-3 Singh Tarua
Nakhon Ratchasima 3-2 PTT Rayong
Phuket 0-1 Rayong Utd
Saraburi 2-1 BBCU
Trat 2-1 Sriracha
TTM 2-3 Rayong FC

Results on the penultimate Saturday have set things up nicely for the final day showdown at both ends of the table.
Nakhon Ratchasima's 3-2 victory over PTT Rayong denied the Oil Millionaires promotion. Goals from Dandrai and Prompong gave the Swatcats a 2-0 lead before Pipat pulled a goal back. Prompong restored the two goal advantage before the break while Pipat's second of the day wasn't enough to haul PTT back into the contest.
PTT Rayong will face Bangkok FC in a winner takes all contest next weekend. The Iron Bulls were minutes away from being eliminated from the TPL promotion race but two late goals at home to Krabi gave them a 3-1 victory.
Singh Tarua are sandwiched inbetween the pair and a win at home to Air Force in their last match would ensure them TPL football in 2014 regardless of what happens at the PTT Stadium. Yesterday, they secured their first away win since June with a 3-2 win at Nakhon Pathom. On form Patrick Reichelt added another goal to his recent collection and the ever reliable Leandro weighed in with another brace to ensure the three points headed back to Khlong Toei.

Air Force and Khon Kaen would both have been satisfied with their 1-1 draw at the Thupathemi. The point sealed the championship for the Airmen while the draw secures Khon Kaen's first division status for another 12 months.

Rayong FC are one game away from performing the great escape after they won 3-2 at TTM yesterday. A looping free kick from Chanatphol gave Rayong FC the lead shortly after the interval but it was cancelled out 20 minutes later by Lassana Sidibe. However, the Wild Horses fired back with goals from Anukorn and Suriyakan before TTM grabbed a second right at the death.
The outcome of Rayong's success means it's a three way battle between themselves, TTM and Sriracha for that last relegation place. Ivan Boskovic's spectacular volley appeared to have earned Sriracha an important point but Na Kwang Hyun's 83rd minute header denied them a share of the spoils.
The Blue Marlins host Saraburi in their final game while Rayong FC welcome Nakhon Pathom Utd. TTM make the long journey to Krabi.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group B)

Chiang Mai 3-0 Udon Thani
Nakhon Nayok 1-0 Paknampo NSRU
Sukhothai 2-3 Ang Thong

Chiang Mai asserted their authority on Group B with a comfortable 3-0 win over Udon Thani. Arnon opened the scoring after half time before an own goal and a Chatchai shot wrapped up a 3-0 win to move the Lanna Tigers three points clear at the top.
Wins for Ang Thong and Nakhon Nayok shook up the pack to keep the race for the second promotion place interesting. Ang Thong produced the comeback of the day after a double from Sirisak had fired Sukhothai into a 2-0 lead. A couple of headers brought the Rice Warriors back into the contest before Tameezee's low shot won the match.
Tomi Bolarinwa was on target as Nakhon Nayok finally kick started their playoff campaign. The 1-0 home win over NSRU brought them their first points and leaves Nakhon Nayok only four points behind second placed Sukhothai.

Matchday 33 Preview

TPL

(Sunday)

Army Utd v Osotspa Saraburi
Bangkok Glass v Chainat
Bangkok Utd v Buriram Utd
BEC Tero v Muangthong United
Chonburi v Samut Songkhram
Pattaya Utd v Chiang Rai Utd
Ratchaburi v Police Utd
Suphanburi P-P Sisaket
TOT v Songkhla Utd

First of all, apologies for the lack of updates during the last fortnight. I've just arrived back in Thailand so I'll briefly explain this penultimate weekend's scenarios.

All of the fixtures will start simultaneously in the TPL at 6pm on Sunday. A win for Buriram at Bangkok Utd would confirm them as 2013 champions. A draw or a loss could also claim the title provided Muangthong don't better Buriram's result. With a superior H2H record for the current leaders, Muangthong would need to gain four more points than Buriram to retain their championship.
Below are the current point standings:

72 Buriram Utd
69 Muangthong Utd

At the foot of the table it's so tight with seven sides still in the relegation mix. There are two massive games involving four of the teams in the battle. The winners between TOT v Songkhla would guarantee survival while Chiang Rai could do likewise if they win at Pattaya Utd. A loss would leave the Dolphins in deep trouble and they'd need to pray that TOT and Samut Songkhram lose and that Ratchaburi don't win to keep themselves alive for the final weekend (On H2H, Pattaya would lose to TOT and R'buri but beat Samut Songkhram).
On paper, Samut Songkhram should be second favorites at Chonburi but they might feel slightly self-assured after winning their last three meetings against the Sharks. Ratchaburi will be eager to beat Police Utd at home before their final day derby clash away to Samut Songkhram.
Bangkok Utd aren't mathematically safe, but it would take a unlikely series of results to see them demoted. 

31 Bangkok Utd
29 Samut Songkham
29 Songkhla Utd
28 Chiang Rai Utd
28 TOT
26 Ratchaburi
26 Pattaya Utd

Division 1

(Saturday)

Air Force v Khon Kaen
Ayutthaya v Siam Navy
Bangkok FC v Krabi
Nakhon Pathom v Singh Tarua
Nakhon Ratchasima v PTT Rayong
Phuket v Rayong Utd
Saraburi v BBCU
Trat v Sriracha
TTM v Rayong FC

All of this round's fixtures will be played concurrently at 5pm on Saturday.
Air Force are all ready assured promotion to the TPL and a minimum of a point at home to lowly Khon Kaen would land them the Division 1 title.
A win for PTT Rayong in Nakhon Ratchasima would also reserve their TPL seat for 2014. However a loss coupled with victories for Singh Tarua and Bangkok FC would make the final matchday very interesting. PTT host Bangkok FC while Tarua welcome TPL bound Air Force next weekend.
It would all be over though on Saturday if Bangkok FC fail to win and Singh Tarua are victorious at Nakhon Pathom (Tarua have the better H2H over Bangkok FC).

68 Air Force
63 PTT Rayong
59 Singh Tarua
58 Bangkok FC

If TTM don't lose to Rayong FC on Saturday then that would conclude the first division's relegation issues. Nonetheless, a success for the Wild Horses would drag TTM into a final day showdown with possibly Khon Kaen and Sriracha if their weekend outings prove fruitless. (Sriracha have better H2H with Rayong FC)

35 TTM
35 Khon Kaen
34 Sriracha
30 Rayong FC
23 Rayong Utd

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group A - Sunday)

Kasetsart v Prachuap
Luk Isan v Roi Et Utd
Nara Utd v Phitsanulok

Already at this early stage, it would take a brave punter to back against Phitsanulok and Roi Et Utd moving on up to Division 1. The other four sides have yet to taste victory after three previous attempts.

9 Phitsanulok
6 Roi Et Utd
2 Prachuap
2 Nara Utd
2 Kasetsart
2 Luk Esan

(Group B - Saturday)

Chiang Mai v Udon Thani
Nakhon Nayok v Paknampo NSRU
Sukhothai v Ang Thong

This group is a bit tighter than Group A. Home wins for Chiang Mai and Sukhothai this round would move the duo firmly into the driving seat. Paknampo NSRU visit a Nakhon Nayok side that has yet to break their duck and three points are essential to keep NSRU in the hunt.

7 Sukhothai
7 Chiang Mai
5 Paknampo NSRU
3 Udon Thani
3 Ang Thong
0 Nakhon Nayok

Upcoming Fixtures

Wednesday 9 October

TPL

Samut Songkhram 0-2 Chiang Rai Utd (Last 25 minutes were played at a neutral venue)

Thursday 10 October

International Friendly

Thailand v Bahrain

Friday 11 October

TPL

TOT v Suphanburi

Saturday 12 October

Div 2 (Group A)

Luk Esan v Prachuap
Nara Utd v Kasetsart
Phitsanulok v Roi Et Utd

Sunday 13 October

Div 2 (Group B)

Ang Thong v Udon Thani
Chiang Mai v Paknampo NSRU
Sukhothai v Nakhon Nayok

Tuesday 15 October

AFC Asian Cup Qualifying

Iran v Thailand

Saturday 19 October

TPL

Chainat v Suphanburi
Osotspa Saraburi v BEC Tero
Police Utd v Chonburi
Songkhla v Bangkok Utd

Div 1

BBCU v Trat
Krabi v Nakhon Ratchasima
PTT Rayong v Phuket
Rayong Utd v Saraburi
Sriracha v Ayutthaya

Div 2 (Group B)

Ang Thong v Chiang Mai
Paknampo NSRU v Sukhothai
Udon Thani v Nakhon Nayok

Sunday 20 October

TPL

Buriram Utd v Pattaya Utd
Chiang Rai Utd v Ratchaburi
Muangthong Utd v Bangkok Glass
Samut Songkhram v Army Utd
Sisaket P-P TOT

Div 1

Air Force v Siam Navy
Khon Kaen v Nakhon Pathom Utd
Rayong FC v Bangkok FC
Singh Tarua v TTM

Div 2 (Group A)

Pitsanulok v Luk Esan
Prachuap v Nara Utd
Roi Et Utd v Kasetsart

I'm going to be on holiday for the next two weeks, so I won't have time to write anything. I'll be back in time for the concluding two weeks of the TPL & Div 1 season.

Sunday 6 October Review

TPL 

Army Utd 2-2 Police Utd
BEC Tero 1-2 Samut Songkhram
Chonburi 3-0 Chiang Rai Utd
Pattaya Utd 2-2 Songkhla Utd
Ratchaburi 2-2 Buriram Utd

Kai Hirano's late goal rescued a point for Buriram United at Ratchaburi. The Dragons obviously hadn't read the script as they took a 2-0 first half lead. Theeraton's sweet chip reduced the deficit before Hirano struck from close range. The point leaves Buriram three in front of Muangthong with three to play.

At the other end, Chiang Rai United are cut four points adrift after their 3-0 loss at Chonburi yesterday. Thiago Cunha headed a second half brace before CRU's Uilian was ordered off 15 minutes from time. Therdsak squeezed one home with virtually the last kick of the match to complete the 3-0 victory.

The two sides closest to Chiang Rai's reach are Pattaya United and Ratchaburi, As mentioned previously, Ratchaburi earned a creditable 2-2 draw with league leaders Buriram United. Pattaya drew 2-2 as well, but they'll have been disappointed not to have beaten an out of sorts Songkhla United in Nong Prue.

Samut Songkhram moved six points from danger after their 2-1 win over BEC Tero. The match was played at Thammasart University due to flooding at Tero's Minburi venue. The Crazy Mackerels came from behind with Guy Hubert scoring one before setting up Phuvanart for the winner.

It also ended 2-2 between Army United and Police United. The match was played in squelching conditions and the draw basically rules out Army's bid for a top 4 finish

Division 1

Air Force 4-1 Sriracha
Nakhon Pathom Utd 0-3 Siam Navy
Nakhon Ratchasima 5-2 Rayong FC
Phuket 1-0 Saraburi

Air Force's 4-1 win over Sriracha leaves them requiring just one more point to reclaim their place in the top flight. The Airmen had their breath taken away as Berlin netted a 4th minute goal for Sriracha. However, close range goals from Supakorn and Anon had Air Force back in control before half time. Jun Uruno and Kouassi got into the act after the interval to make it 4-1. Sriracha's Aumpai was later sent off for striking an AF player in the chest.

Rayong FC's brief Division 1 tenure looks to be coming to an end after they suffered a 5-2 defeat in Korat. The Wild Horses are five points from safety and their remaining three fixtures are Bangkok FC (H), TTM (A) and Nakhon Pathom (H). The result also confirmed that Ayutthaya and TTM are staying up after the pair have endured relegation worries for the majority of the season.

The outcome of the other two matches had no bearing on matters at either end of the table.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group B)
Nakhon Nayok 0-1 Chiang Mai
Paknampo NSRU 1-0 Ang Thong
Sukhothai 2-0 Udon Thani

Arnon slipped the ball under the keeper in the fifth minute to give Chiang Mai a 1-0 win at Nakhon Nayok. The MTU feeder club had chances to level but it was Chiang Mai who held out for the three points.
Sirisak Musbungo was Sukhothai's hero of the day as his double sunk Udon Thani. The 2-0 win for the Fire Bats means they'll enter matchday 2 as the group's early pace setters.
Ang Thong's keeper was left with egg on his face when the ball bounced off his backside into the net after he'd woefully attempted to punch away a cross. His error cost his side the game as they lost 1-0 at Paknampo NSRU.

Saturday 5 October Review

TPL 

Osotspa Saraburi 1-3 Muangthong Utd
Suphanburi 1-0 Bangkok Glass
TOT 2-1 Chainat

TOT claimed a much needed three points to end an appalling sequence of results that saw them plummet towards the bottom of the table. Juninho's 30 yard screamer midway through the first half gave TOT the lead before Ekkachai doubled it shortly after the break. Noppol was given a second yellow card late on to reduce Chainat to ten yet Sumanya volleyed home from eight yards for a consolation.

Teerasil was the toast of Muangthong as his hat-trick helped his side win 3-1 at Osotspa Saraburi. His first in the 25th minute was a gift as the Osotspa keeper made a horrendous hash at clearing a backpass. Osotspa were back on level terms before the interval courtesy of Komenan's glancing header. Mui got his second of the day from close range in the 70th minute before he completed his treble in injury time with a fine solo goal.

A crowd of 21,059 watched as Dragan Boskovic's 51st minute penalty separated Suphanburi and Bangkok Glass. The 1-0 win for Suphanburi lifted them above their opponents into fourth place. They are now one point ahead of BG and they have a game in hand.

Division 1

Ayutthaya 2-0 BBCU
Bangkok FC 2-1 Singh Tarua
PTT Rayong 2-0 Krabi
Trat 5-2 Rayong Utd
TTM 2-2 Khon Kaen

Bangkok FC won the much anticipated promotion clash beating Singh Tarua 2-1. Tawin netted twice to ensure that the Iron Bulls climbed over Tarua into third place.
PTT Rayong's 2-0 win over Krabi gives them a four point buffer over fourth place and they need five points from their remaining three matches to claim a TPL berth for 2014. Outtara's 70th minute opener squelched its way through the puddles before Kirati's header wrapped up the points eight minutes from time.

At the bottom, results yesterday gave Rayong United their last rights as only a minor miracle would save them now. The Elephant Warriors would need to win their last three matches and hope that Khon Kaen lost theirs. Also they'd need to hope that Rayong FC didn't pick up more than five points too. Khon Kaen grabbed a point at TTM to move onto 32 which is five points ahead of second bottom Rayong FC.

Phil Stubbins has managed to halt Ayutthaya's slide down the table and yesterday's 2-0 win over BBCU should be enough to move them over the safety line. Sorasak and Nattakorn were on target for the Ancient Warriors.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group A)
Kasetsart 0-0 Luk Esan
Nara Utd 0-2 Roi Et Utd
Prachuap 1-2 Phitsanulok

Even at this early stage, it already appears that Roi Et United and Phitsanulok are the teams to catch in Group A.
Two second half goals helped Roi Et negotiate a tricky encounter at Nara United. Erivaldo got the first from the spot in 68th minute before Jose Munoz added a second deep into injury time.
Jung Su Oh scored a late winner as Phitsanulok won 2-1 at Prachuap. Saksit had earlier sliced the ball into his own net to give the visitors a first half lead. Khampee did equalize via a penalty kick but it was the Violet Army who were celebrating at the final whistle.
At Kasetsart, the woodwork was to deny both sides as the hosts fought out a 0-0 draw with Luk Esan. Both sides had plenty of chances but they'll need to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to catch Roi Et and Phitsanulok.

Matchday 31 & Div 2 Playoffs Preview

TPL 

(Saturday)
Bangkok United P-P Sisaket
Osotspa Saraburi v Muangthong Utd
Suphanburi v Bangkok Glass
TOT v Chainat

(Sunday)
Army Utd v Police Utd
BEC Tero v Samut Songkhram
Chonburi v Chiang Rai Utd
Pattaya Utd v Songkhla Utd
Ratchaburi v Buriram Utd

Back to back wins for Chiang Rai United have drawn TOT, Samut Songkhram, Patttaya Utd and Ratchaburi back into the relegation scramble. For TOT, they face a massive week with two home matches. Chainat come calling on Saturday while Suphanburi are at the TOT Stadium on the following Friday. The Telephone Boys need to end a barren run which has seen them collect only one point from the last 33 available.
Ratchaburi get an immediate dress rehearsal for next month's league cup final with the visit of Buriram United to their home. Pattaya look good for three points as they entertain an ailing Songkhla United while Samut Songkhram would take a point at Tero if it were offered to them now. Likewise, Chiang Rai Utd have a tough assignment at Chonburi and a draw would be seen as an acceptable outcome.

Elsewhere, Muangthong make the trip up to Osotspa Saraburi and a win would ensure them a second placed finish. Suphanburi and Bangkok Glass are battling it out for fourth place and the winner of this will be in pole position to claim a top 4 finish. If Suphanburi lose, they would drop to sixth if Army United can triumph over Police United.

Division 1

(Saturday)
Ayutthaya v BBCU
Bangkok FC v Singh Tarua
PTT Rayong v Krabi
Trat v Rayong Utd
TTM v Khon Kaen

(Sunday)
Air Force v Sriracha
Nakhon Pathom Utd v Siam Navy
Nakhon Ratchasima v Rayong FC
Phuket v Saraburi

The much anticipated clash between Bangkok FC and Singh Tarua won't decide who goes up, but it will certainly have a large bearing on the final standings. It's definitely more important for Bangkok FC to collect three points than it is for Tarua. A draw might satisfy the Klong Toei side as it would leave them a point ahead of the Irons Bulls with three to play and they'd have a superior head-to-head record should they finish level on points.
A loss for Bangkok FC coupled with an Air Force home win would confirm Air Force's ascendancy into the TPL. PTT Rayong in second will move a step closer to the top flight provided they dispatch of Krabi.

Rayong United's days in the first division are numbered and they would be officially relegated if they lost at Trat and Khon Kaen won at TTM.
Rayong FC need to get over their midweek cup disappointment as they visit the Esan region for the second time in five days. The travel to Nakhon Ratchasima who themselves were knocked out of the cup despite dominating their tie against Ratchaburi.
Two wins and three draws since the arrival of Phil Stubbins at Ayutthaya has eased relegation fears. A win over BBCU would leave them within inches of safety.

Division 2 Playoffs

(Group A - Saturday)
Kasetsart v Luk Esan
Nara Utd v Roi Et Utd
Prachuap v Phitsanulok

(Group B - Sunday)
Nakhon Nayok v Chiang Mai
Paknampo NSRU v Ang Thong
Sukhothai v Udon Thani

The pinnacle of the regional league season begins as the playoffs kick off this weekend. Four sides, the top two from each group, will be promoted to the first division for 2014.
Roi Et Utd will start Group A as favorites but their opening match couldn't be any tougher. They travel to Nara United where they'll be playing in a hostile atmosphere. A point for the White Squirrels would probably be a satisfactory return.
Kasetsart won their last three league games to make it into the playoffs and they kick off against Police United's youth/feeder club, Luk Esan. The Thammasart based club won the Central East region but it's a game that Kasetsart must win if they aim to climb up the leagues.
Prachuap were the front runners for the majority of the season in Central West but towards the end of the season they took their foot of the pedal with only two wins in their last seven matches. Their opponents Phitsanulok are currently 12 unbeaten and will be full of confidence. Apparently, they have the biggest squad budget out of all the teams in this section.

In my opinion, Group B is probably the tougher one to get out of with several strong sides in this pool. Chiang Mai will no doubt be pulling in most of the headlines and they start their campaign at Nakhon Nayok. Similar to Luk Esan, NN were floundering in the regional leagues until a partnership was made with a TPL side. The club they are tied up with are Muangthong United and they can boast a player rota which includes Jorrin John, Tomi Bolarinwa, Matej Rapnik and several Thai youth players from the Nonthaburi club.
Central West winners Ang Thong have been widely tipped to do well. The Rice Warriors finished their league campaign strongly with five successive wins scoring 16 goals in the process. They travel to another much fancied side, Paknampo NSRU.
Sukhothai made it through to the playoffs after negotiating a playoff with Chumpon. They welcome an Udon Thani side who seem to enjoy playing sides beginning with the letter 'S.' They accounted for the scalps of Singh Tarua, Samut Songkhram and Songkhla United in the league cup before they were eventually ousted by Buriram United in the last 8.