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.

Saturday 15 June Review

International Friendly
China 1-5 Thailand

Yes, the scoreline above isn't a misprint!! Prior to this international match, there was very little interest from the Thai media and the vast majority of the Thai public. Hardly anybody gave the Thai squad a chance before this friendly, but now there will be renewed optimism after interim coach Kiatisak "Zico" Senamuang masterminded one of Thailand's greatest ever victories.

A 16th minute spectacular curled effort from Pokklao opened the scoring before Adisak finished off a breakaway move to double the lead 8 minutes later.
Wang Yangpo sent Sinthaweechai the wrong way from the penalty spot after the hosts were awarded a softish looking penalty.
After the break, Adisak added his second seven minutes into the second half. Chanathip then netted from 25 yards to give Thailand a 4-1 lead on the hour.
China's misery was then complete as Sarauwut netted following a goal line clearance from a Chinese defender to complete the mauling 3 minutes from time.

The defeat was China's third in a row as an inquest began into why they lost 5-1 at home to an unfancied Thai side. The tenure of coach Jose Antonio Camacho could well be ended after this embarrassing defeat.


Toyota League Cup Last 16
Luk Tapfah 2-0 Air Force
PTT Rayong 1-2 Army Utd (AET)

Luk Tapfah and Army booked their quarter final berths after victories yesterday. Two second half goals from Luk Tapfah saw them eliminate big brother, Air Force, while Army needed extra time in Map Kha. Adisak's 90th minute goal cancelled out Jung Myung Oh's earlier strike to ensure that an extra 30 minutes were required. With penalties looking imminent, Nipol spared the Gentleman Rangers the lottery of spot kicks when he netted three minutes before the final whistle.

Luk Tapfah and Army join Buriram, Chonburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Rayong FC and Udon Thani in the draw for the last 8 on Tuesday.

Saturday 15 June Preview

Toyota League Cup Last 16
Luk Tapfah v Air Force
PTT Rayong v Army Utd

PTT Rayong and Army United both face interesting team selections ahead of this cup tie. In the last round, Army went with a second string XI as they edged past tenants BBCU. With only Buriram and Chonburi left in the draw as serious adversaries, Army will see this competition as a route to success and a stronger starting line-up must be expected.
PTT Rayong on the other hand, are second in the 1st Division and winning promotion to the TPL surely tops their priorities. Will they want avoid injuries and play fringe players, or would they prefer to show their TPL credentials to the viewing gallery?

Luk Tapfah v Air Force also poses a few conundrums as the former is the latter's junior/B team. For the sake of Thai football, we are hoping that the contest is decided on the pitch rather than in the boardroom.

International Friendly
China v Thailand

A new era begins as Thai soccer legend Kiatasuk "Zico" Senamuang takes over as national team head coach after the departure of Winfried Schafer. The main focus for the U23 guru is the SEA Games at the end of the year. This friendly fixture with China in Nanjing has seen Zico opt for mainly U23 players to face what should be a strong Chinese selection.
From the 20 man Thai squad, only Theeratorn and Adul along with the experienced Sinthaweechai could be described as national team regulars. Teerasil and Panupong withdrew following injuries while Kawin is still recovering from his broken leg.
Zico has boldly stated that he will start with a 4-3-3 formation to attack China.

Lebanon 5-2 Thailand

Thailand's hopes of qualifying for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup in Australia lie in tatters after they suffered a 5-2 loss in Lebanon.

Not Going!!

The makeshift Thai side were behind after only six minutes when Hassan Chaito's shot went through Sivarak's legs.

The same man then doubled the lead before Mohammed Haider's deflected shot made it 3-0 on the half hour mark.

The only moment of cheer for the Thais in the first half came when Sivarak continued his hot penalty saving streak by blocking Hassan Maatouk's weak effort.

Shortly after the interval, Tittiphan gave Thailand a glimmer of hope when he pulled a goal back to reduce the deficit.

The Thai side continued to attack but where dealt a blow on 72 minutes when Maatouk rounded Sivarak to put the game to bed.

Tittiphan grabbed his second goal of the game to pull one back for Thailand before Abbis Ali Atwi restored the three goal cushion in the dying moments.

Thailand's next game is against Iran in October and it seems inevitable that Winnie Schafer won't be at the helm of the Thai ship for this journey.

Whoever is in charge will have a monumental task trying to salvage anything out of this group. Thailand have zero points from two attempts, and next up are back to back matches with group favourites Iran. 

Winnie's After Match Comments & Goals Clip

Here's what Winfried Scafer had to say after the disappointing 3-1 loss to Kuwait:

This evening was disappointing for everyone. Congratulation goes to Kuwait. The yellow cards at the beginning were not an expression of fair play, but of fighting spirit and the uncompromising will to succeed is the basis for sporting achievement. Sometimes that looks ugly, but it works. A long term preparation under perfect conditions, the close by golf cup, all of that gave them confidence. Anyway if you want to be successful international you have to face such an attitude and I am sure we can do that, I am sure we can do better, much better and that’s why I am disappointed. We have a lot to discuss, a lot to plan for Lebanon.

We have to do everything possible to prepare as good as possible and then we have still a good chance.

In the next weeks I will visit the clubs, take a look at the players, there some new ones in my focus and I will look for a dialogue with the team manager and the president to discuss all the issues that must be discussed and plan the next important steps so develop and improve.

After such a sad evening three points that made me very happy:

Adul. He fought with a nasty injury the last week but today he was fearless and ready to give it all. A real man, a fighter, a player of always 100%. You can be proud Chonburi, that’s a real jewel.

Jay, the little whirlwind. He is Thailand’s future, so be warned Asia.

And… I know I repeat myself. You, the fans again. To make it short. cheer even after a 3:0 when we made a goal, that’s outstanding and touched us all. Thank you so much. But I really think the Rajamangala isn’t the best choose for a game at Wednesday night. Not easy for you to reach it, so we are even more thankful for your support. Hope the FA will find an alternative next time.

Source: facebook

Thailand 1-3 Kuwait

Thailand's qualification hopes for Australia 2015 took a massive blow as they were soundly beaten by Kuwait 3-1 on a churned-up Rajamangala pitch.

The first chance of the game came when Al Mutwa split the Thai defence with a through ball only for Yousef Naser to fire wide from the edge of the box with only Kawin to beat.

Kuwait continued to use the pace of Naser on the counter attack as they sat back comfortably containing any early Thai attacking threats.

On 25 minutes, the deadlock was broken when Thailand's defence was too easily cut open. Al Mutwa's cross shot from the outside of his right boot was probably just creeping wide, yet the ball was knocked into the empty net by the unfortunate Theerathorn as he tried to clear it.

Just after the half hour, there were loud shouts for a penalty when Fadhel's lunge at the ball caught Teerasil on the ankle. TV replays showed that there was contact but the foul happened inches outside the box. In the end it didn't matter as the Japanese referee didn't whistle for any offense.

The Atletico Madrid trialist then miscued a shot wide minutes later after Anucha had set him up, and the same man warmed the palms of Al Khaldi seconds before the interval as Kuwait went in 1-0 to the good.

The hosts came out on the offensive after the break, but yet again slack defending proved costly when an unmarked Hussain Fadhel headed home Al Mutwa's floated free kick on the hour.

Not long afterwards, the game was put to bed as substitute Hamad Aman slotted past Kawin with his first touch after Al Mutwa chipped the ball over the static Thai defense.

Substitute Chanathip was called from the bench and the youngster pulled a goal back ten minutes later for Thailand with his long range shot creeping into the bottom corner.

Yousef Naser rattled the crossbar and forced Kawin to make a strong one-handed save as Kuwait comfortably saw out the game 3-1.

Overall the match was a massive disappointment for Thailand. The back four defended like four players on a table football rod while crosses into the opponent's box were woeful. The Kuwaitis defended stoutly and were lively on the counter attack. After tonight's game, I'd be very surprised if they don't qualify for Australia 2015.

Man of the Match: Bader Al Mutwa - Involved in all three goals

AFC Asian Cup: The Road to Australia

The road to Australia 2015 begins with Thailand hosting Kuwait at the Rajamangala Stadium next Wednesday. The Thais will have been buoyed by their recent performance in the AFF Cup despite the fact that they lost to Singapore in the two-legged final. The national side will be looking towards the west of Asia with Lebanon and Iran competing in Group B alongside Kuwait. The top two will progress from the qualification stages to the finals while there is also a best third-placed spot up for grabs.
Iran will inevitably start as favourites, so Winnie Schafar must surely have pencilled in home wins against Kuwait and Lebanon if his troops are to progress.
Thailand's fixture list is as follows:

6 Feb - Kuwait (H)
22 Mar - Lebanon (A)
15 Oct - Iran (A)
15 Nov - Iran (H)
19 Nov - Kuwait (A)
5 Mar (2014) - Lebanon (H)

All home matches are presently scheduled for the Rajamangala Stadium.

Below is the squad listed for the Kuwait match:

Goalkeepers
Kawin (MTU), Yosapol (Buriram Utd), Chatchai (Osotspa)

Defenders
Artit, Panupong, Piyaphon, Thitipan (MTU), Cholratit (Chonburi), Theerathon (Buriram Utd), Narubodin (BEC Tero)

Midfielders
Datsakorn, Pichitphong, Jakkaphan (MTU), Anucha, Adul (Chonburi), Chanatip (BEC Tero), Apipoo (Osotspa), Sumanya (Chainat), Teeratep (BG)

Attackers
Teerasil (MTU), Chatree (BG), Kirati (PTT Rayong), Tana (Police Utd)

Weekend Review 17-18 November

International Friendly
Thailand 5-0 Bangladesh

Thailand will enter the AFF Cup in a confident state of mind after they enjoyed their second 5-0 friendly success of the week. It was far too easy for the national favourites with star striker Teerasil scoring a hat-trick on his return to the firing line. As with the Bhutan friendly last Wednesday, the game was over as a contest within a few minutes. Sompong got the faintest of touches to a Pichitphong free kick before Teerasil fired his treble past the unconvincing Bangladesh keeper. Samut Songkhram's Napat bagged his second goal in consecutive matches as Thailand completed the 5-0 beating.
The Thais will entertain the Philippines at the Rajamangala next Saturday as they begin their AFF Cup campaign. The opening match will be quickly followed by games against Myanmar and Vietnam.

Division 2 Playoffs
(Group A)
Pattani P-P Paknampo NSRU
Ayutthaya 1-1 Roi Et Utd
Phitsanulok 1-0 Rayong Utd

An injury time blooper from Theerapong allowed Roi Et Utd to snatch a point at Ayutthaya. The keeper allowed a speculative shot from Naronglit to squirm through his legs as the game entered stoppage time. It was a fiercely fought contest throughout and Justin Herve's 70th minute header looked to have won the match as Ayutthaya pressed home their second half dominance. The point apiece keeps both sides in the top two with Ayutthaya on 14 points and Roi Et on 10.
Behind Roi Et, it's becoming log jammed with three sides now on eight points. The game between Pattani and NSRU was postponed until Tuesday evening much to the disapproval of NSRU. Apparently the Rainbow Stadium wasn't available to host the match.
Phitsanulok's promotion hopes appeared dead and buried a fortnight ago, but two home wins have propelled the northern club to within two points of the top two. Beak Soo Hyun's looping shot on the hour was the only goal of the game. The win for Phitsanulok moved them level with the Elephant Warriors on eight points.

(Group B)
Trat 3-2 Thai Honda
Rayong FC 1-1 Trang
Sisaket Utd 0-2 Chiang Mai FC

Trat have one foot inside the Division 1 door after they won in Round 7 whilst their nearest two challengers, Sisaket Utd and Rayong FC, failed to pick up three points. Trat squandered a 2 goal lead against bottom club Thai Honda, but were rescued with a late Watcharaphol goal as they picked up three precious points to move five clear at the top.
Meanwhile, Rayong FC were surprisingly held at home by Trang to a 1-1 draw. Sarun gave the Wild Horses the lead on the half hour via a penalty kick before Prawet levelled for Trang 10 minutes later. Rayong couldn't find that all important second goal as they had to settle for a solitary point.
That result would have pleased Chiang Mai FC as they crept into promotion contention with an impressive 2-0 win at Sisaket Utd. Goals from Aliou Seck and Chanatphol ensured that the Lanna Tigers closed to within two points of Sisaket Utd and Rayong FC.

Weekend Preview 17-18 November

Division 2 Playoffs
(Group A - Saturday)
Pattani v Paknampo NSRU
Ayutthaya v Roi Et Utd
Phitsanulok v Rayong Utd

The pick of the weekend's clashes is the the top 2 showdown between Ayutthaya and Roi Et United. A win for Ayutthaya would virtually book them a promotion place. They currently sit four points clear of Roi Et with four games left to play.
NSRU and Rayong United are perched closely on the shoulder of Roi Et and they'll be hoping for an Ayutthaya win coupled with one of their own. The promotion seeking pair are both on the road with NSRU making the journey down south to Pattani and Rayong Utd travelling up north to Phitsanulok.

(Group B - Sunday)
Trat v Thai Honda
Rayong FC v Trang
Sisaket Utd v Chiang Mai FC

The top three placed sides all have home games as they bid to complete the double over their Round 7 guests. It's top versus bottom with Trat hosting Thai Honda. In their last meeting Trat eased to a 3-0 win in Lat Krabang. On glancing at the league table, a similar outcome seems likely.
With Trang basically out of the promotion picture, Rayong FC should collect three points from them while Sisaket Utd will face a stiffer test against Chiang Mai FC. Sisaket Utd dropped off the top of the pile last week when they were held at home by struggling Thai Honda. Another home draw would most likely see them overtaken by Rayong FC.

International Friendlies
Thailand 5-0 Bhutan

It's not easy to make an assessment of a 5-0 win over the joint worst FIFA ranked team in the world. The fact that Bhutan turned up wearing a plain kit that appeared to have been purchased from a bargain basement sale earlier in the day, hardly added to their creditworthiness as a viable opponent.
The game as a contest was over within the first five minutes after Apipoo had netted two easy goals. The Osotspa man bagged a hat-trick later in the opening period while goals from Napat and Rattana completed the 5-0 win.
Thailand probably should have won by a greater scoreline but they wasted several set piece plays particularly in the second half. 

Thailand v Bangladesh

The last of Thailand's warm up matches will be completed against Bangladesh this Saturday. It's another choice of opponent that hardly sets the pulses racing although it should give the national side another test in beating a side that their supposed to beat.
The venue for this final warm-up match will be the Thai Japanese Stadium once again.

EDIT: The game will be played at the Rajamangala Stadium not the Thai Japanese.

Weekend 10-11 November Review

Toyota League Cup Final
Buriram Utd 4-1 Ratchaburi

Buriram United won their second cup final of the week as they strolled to a 4-1 win over a Ratchaburi side that was down to it's bare bones. The first division champions had no substitutes listed due to having eight inelligable Buriram United loanees on their books.
With the unconvincing Pathomporn in the Ratchaburi goal, a giant killing never looked likely. In the 36th minute, the Dragon's keeper weakly flapped at a Theeratorn free kick allowing Ekwalla to open the scoring, and minutes later Jerkovic netted from close range to kill off the contest before the half time interval.
Osmar headed Buriram three in front just after the hour before Sivakorn feebly patted the ball onto the unsuspecting Adisak to give Ratchaburi a consolation two minutes later. Goran Jerkovic bagged his double three minutes from time as his header completed an easy day at the office for the Thunder Castle.

Division 2 Playoffs
(Group A)
Roi Et Utd 2-0 Pattani
Rayong Utd 3-1 Ayutthaya
Phitsanulok 1-0 Paknampo NSRU

There were three home wins in Group A as Ayutthaya finally tasted defeat for the first time. The Ancient Warriors lost 3-1 at Rayong United but they still have the benefit of a five point cushion on third place.
At the other end, Phitsanulok won their first game to keep their distant promotion hopes smouldering. Somlak's goal shortly before half time was the only goal of the contest.
Roi Et moved into second spot after they beat Pattani 2-0. A Piyapong penalty and a Michael Victor goal that shouldn't have stood in my opinion won it for Roi Et Utd.

(Group B)
Trang 0-4 Trat
Sisaket Utd 1-1 Thai Honda
Chiang Mai FC 0-0 Rayong FC

Trat were the only side to win on Round 6 as they submitted an impressive 4-0 win at Trang. An early Toth opener followed by a Wuttichai double and a late Raymond goal moved the White Elephants one point clear at the top with a game in hand.
It was a late show at Sisaket United with the points shared between the hosts and Thai Honda. Jimmy Shola's 85th minute goal appeared to have won the points for Sisaket United but they were denied late on when Pornchai's strike earned a point for Thai Honda. The late equalizer proved costly for Sisaket Utd as they dropped to second in the group.
Chiang Mai FC enjoyed the bulk of the chances against Rayong FC despite playing the majority of the game with 10 players. Even though Rayong FC had the man advantage, they seemed content to settle for a point. The draw keeps Rayong FC in third place one point behind Sisaket United. Chiang Mai are six points off the promotion spots although they do have the replayed match against Trat up their sleeve.

International Friendly
Thailand v Bhutan

Thailand host Bhutan in their second warm-up match for the AFF Cup. The Thais will be looking to build on last week's encouraging 2-0 victory over AFF holders Malaysia. I imagine Schafer will mix and match his team again as he bids to find his strongest 11. The latest FIFA rankings released on 7th November had Bhutan ranked in 207th place, equal last with San Marino and the Turks and Caicos Islands. It should be a comfortable win for Thailand which will hopefully be supplemented with a morale boosting performance.
The friendly will be played at 6pm on Wednesday at the Thai Japanese Stadium in Din Daeng.

Weekend Preview 10-11 November & International Friendly Result

Toyota League Cup Final (Saturday, Thammasart University, 5.45pm)
Buriram Utd v Ratchaburi

Buriram United will start as strong favorites to retain the trophy that they won last season, and complete the domestic cup clean sweep for the second consecutive year.
In the three seasons since the introduction of the Toyota League Cup, Buriram have only tasted defeat once which was back in 2010 to Thai Port in the final.
The Thunder Castle have saved their best form for the cups this season after floundering to fourth in a disappointing league campaign. Osmar Barba and Goran Jerkovic have been the shining beacons that have stood out in Buriram's cup runs.

Ratchaburi on the other hand, won the first division title in their maiden season after being promoted from the regional leagues in 2011. On the way to this final, the Dragons have taken the TPL scalps of Pattaya United, Wuachon United and TOT. Unfortunately, they won't be able to call on any player of theirs with any Buriram connections for this big occasion. In the FA Cup tie between the two finalists, Ratchaburi faced the same predicament and were trounced 7-1 on the night. From a neutrals point of view, let's hope Ratchaburi put up a better fight this time to make it a competitive spectacle.

Division 2 Playoffs
(Group A - Sunday)
Roi Et Utd v Pattani
Rayong Utd v Ayutthaya
Phitsanulok v Paknampo NSRU

As Group A has reached the halfway stage, the big question appears to be who'll be joining Ayutthaya in Division one next season. With a seven point cushion over third placed Roi Et Utd, it would take a catastrophic implosion for Ayutthaya not to be promoted. They travel to Rayong United who are incidentally the only side to take a point of Ayutthaya. That draw came back on the opening round of fixtures.
The story of this group for the rest has been too many drawn matches with Roi Et and Pattani amassing 7 out of a possible 10 between them. The pair clash on Sunday and as we enter the business end of the playoffs, these draws need to be turned into wins.
For bottom side Phitsanulok, they need to win all five of their remaining games and hope results go in their favour. Anything other than three points against second placed NSRU would be the end of Phitsanulok's season. NSRU on the other hand, will see this as a great opportunity for their first away win. 


(Group B - Saturday)
Trang v Trat
Sisaket Utd v Thai Honda
Chiang Mai FC v Rayong FC

On Tuesday it was announced that the Chiang Mai v Trat game from last Saturday would be replayed after the referee controversially allowed a late Trat equalizer to stand despite the fact that there were still Chiang Mai players off the park celebrating a goal they'd scored moments earlier.
Regardless of what happens in that replay, Chiang Mai need to concentrate on the task on hand this weekend as they host Rayong FC who have lost two out of their last three matches.
Trat were clearly unhappy with the decision to replay the game and will be brooding as they make the long trip to Trang. The Dugons won their first match last weekend and another win would keep their slim promotion hopes alive.
Back on Day 1, Thai Honda comfortably beat Sisaket Utd 2-0. Since then the fortunes of both have been polar opposites with Honda losing four on the trot while SU have won three and drawn one on their way to claiming the top berth. The visit of Thai Honda sees the Esan club play their second of three consecutive home games. On current form this match seems like a home banker!

International Friendly Result
Thailand 2-0 Malaysia

Thailand began their first of three warm-up matches for the AFF Cup with a 2-0 win over Malaysia. The result would have pleased Winfried Schafer despite the guests offering very little. The game was tough on the eye for the sparse crowd at the SCG Stadium with fouls and misplaced passes littering the contest.
Debutaunt, Prayat Bunya, headed the only goal of a scrappy first half and Arthit's long range strike with ten minutes left wrapped up the friendly win for the Thais. Adul was dismissed on 72 minutes for receiving two yellows within the space of three minutes and he was joined for an early bath when Malaysia's Abdul Rasak was ordered off shortly before full time.

Winnie Schafer will know his side still needs to improve before the competition begins on 24th November in spite of the encouraging 2-0 scoreline. The German still has his star pair of Teerasil and Datsakorn to return to the fold, plus a couple of the available Buriram United players who should return after the League Cup final. Next up is another friendly against Bhutan next Wednesday.

Weekend Preview 15-16 September & Midweek Results

TPL
(Saturday)
Bangkok Glass v BEC Tero
BBCU v Police Utd
Osotspa Saraburi v Pattaya Utd
Buriram Utd v Thai Port

(Sunday)
Army Utd v Muangthong Utd
Chainat v Samut Songkhram
TOT v TTM
Esan Utd v Chaing Rai Utd

Muangthong have found the Army Stadium a troublesome venue and they've failed to win there on their previous two TPL attempts. In the early days of last season, Army swept aside the Nonthaburi club 3-0 as they marched to the summit of the league. This will be Army's first home game in Bangkok since August 4th when they lost 3-1 to BEC Tero.
The significant clash at the bottom is 17th placed BBCU against Police Utd in 15th. The Thammasart favorites will begin a series of seven home matches after this one and you feel a point may be satisfactory. For BBCU a win is essential and failure to collect three points would leave them in a perilous position.
The club sandwiched inbetween BBCU and Police are Thai Port. The face a tough trip to Buriram although they will be buoyed by the fact that they beat the current champions at the PAT earlier in the season.
Chainat perch just above the relegation zone and will see the visit of Samut Songkhram as a chance to pull away from trouble. With 19 goals conceded in their last five and only one clean sheet in their last 11, attack would appear to be the best form of defence for the Hornbills. 
Most of us have already written TTM off. The Tobacco Monopoly visit TOT who will be looking to bounce back from last week's 4-0 drubbing at Samut Songkhram.
Elsewhere, the unpredictable duo of Bangkok Glass and BEC Tero will either fight out a 0-0 stalemate or a 5-5 thriller. Three points for Pattaya at Osotspa would pretty much guarantee their top flight status for another season and likewise Chiang Rai Utd will be sharing similar thoughts as they visit Esan Utd.

Division 1
(Saturday)
PTT Rayong v Khon Kaen
Raj Pracha v Bangkok FC
Chantaburi v Saraburi

(Sunday)
JW Rangsit v Korat
FC Phuket v Phatthalung
Ratchaburi v Air Force Utd
Krabi v Suphanburi
Songkla v Bangkok Utd
Siam Navy v Sriracha

Realistically it's two from four as Bangkok Utd, Suphanburi, Sriracha and PTT Rayong battle it out to join TPL bound Ratchaburi in the top flight.
PTT are hanging onto the coattails of the promotion race and they would move closer to the top three with victory over Khon Kaen on Saturday.  On the following day, the other three sides travel away from home. Bangkok United and Suphanburi head south with trips to Songkla and Krabi respectively while Sriracha make the short journey down the coast to Sattahip to take on Siam Navy.
Zico issued a war cry a earlier in the week saying that his side will fight until the death to avoid relegation. The Bulligans remaining eight games are mainly against lower league sides with a trip to Raj Pracha providing the first of eight cup finals for Bangkok FC.

Division 2 Bangkok
(Saturday)
R-BEC v Chamchuri Utd
Globex v Central Lions
Samut Prakarn Utd v Rayong Utd
Luk Esan v Samut Sakhon
Assumption Thonburi v Thai Honda
Rangsit FC v Customs Utd
Nonthaburi v Bangkok Christian
North Bangkok v Kasetsart
Kasem Bundit v Krung Thonburi

Promotion is now out of the hands of R-BEC and Samut Sakhon and all they can do now is hope that Rayong United and Kasetsart slip up. The pair in second and third have testing away games with Rayong Utd at Samut Prakarn Utd and Kasetsart at North Bangkok.
Thai Honda have already qualified for the playoffs and they'll be able to chop and change their starting 11 for their trip to Assumption.
With Nonthaburi already assured a dreaded bottom two finish, another loss for Central Lions at Globex would ensure that they join Eka in oblivion next year.


Toyota League Cup - Last 8 Second Leg
Chonburi 1 v 1 Bangkok Glass (BG won 2-1 on agg.)

BG progressed to the semi finals with a 2-1 aggregate win over Chonburi. Samual Ajayi's well taken goal a minute after the break was the crucial strike. Despite having the better of the match, Therdsak's late penalty was all the Sharks could muster as they bowed out of the Toyota League Cup.

International Friendly
Thailand 2-1 Laos

Teeratorn's late penalty spared Thailand's blushes as they came from behind to beat Laos 2-1 at a virtually empty Rajamangala Stadium. Laos took an early lead through Sopa Chaichana and smacked the crossbar as the underdogs held the lead for over an hour. Police United's Surachart pulled one back before Teeratorn netted from the spot after the Thais were awarded a softish penalty.
It was another unconvincing performance for the side show that appears to be playing second fiddle to domestic league and cup competitions.

Weekend Review 8-9 September & Midweek Fixtures

TPL
Thai Port 0-0 Bangkok Glass
Pattaya 2-1 Army Utd
Chonburi 4-2 Buriram Utd
Police Utd 1-0 Osotspa Saraburi
BEC Tero 4-2 Chainat
Muangthong Utd 2-0 Wuachon Utd
Chiang Rai Utd 2-0 BBCU
TTM 0-0 Esan Utd
Samut Songkhram 4-0 TOT

Chonburi completed the double over Buriram United with a 4-2 victory at the Chonburi Stadium. It was very much a day for foreigners as the seven goals were scored by overseas players while the game was refereed by Uzbek officials.
Goals from Rangel and Piyaphon kept Muangthong on course for the title as they beat Wuachon 2-0.
A crowd of almost 4,000 witnessed another Cleiton Silva hat-trick as the Fire Dragons saw off Chainat 4-2 in their first match under the guidance of SGE. The Hornbills must be having a nervous look over their shoulders as they are in danger of being swept into the drop zone.
Thai Port slipped into the bottom three after they were held to a goalless draw by Bangkok Glass. The Port Lions were the better side throughout and will look towards an 84th minute Bangkok Glass goal line clearance which they felt crossed the line.
At the Thammasart, Police United moved above Thai Port after a 78th minute goal from Tana earned them a 1-0 over Osotspa. The Crimson Cops certainly had the rub of the green as Osotspa had a perfectly good goal chalked off midway through the second period.
BBCU and TTM remain in trouble. The Pink Panthers lost 2-0 at a packed United Stadium while TTM fought out a scrappy 0-0 draw with Esan Utd.
Samut Songkhram eased to a 4-0 victory over TOT with Napat scoring and creating two. TOT were raging when officials failed to spot what they felt was a legitimate goal with the score at 1-0.
Ludovik Takem was the Dolphins saviour once again as his brace against Army moved the eastern seaboard club six points above the relegation placings. 

Division 1
Bangkok FC 1-3 Ratchaburi
Air Force Utd 3-0 FC Phuket
Saraburi 2-1 Siam Navy
Sriracha 1-0 Krabi
Phatthalung 2-2 Chantaburi
Suphanburi 3-0 PTT Rayong
Khon Kaen 0-0 Songkla
Bangkok Utd 2-0 JW Rangsit
Korat 2-2 Raj Pracha

Ratchaburi's push for the title continued as they eased to a 3-1 against Bangkok FC. Three first half goals put the Dragons firmly in the driving seat as the Bulligan's woes continued. The big spending Bang Mot club are now four points from safety.
Bangkok United made it 10 unbeaten and remain on course to join Ratchaburi in the TPL. They beat JW Rangsit 2-0 while Suphanburi make up the top three. The Warriors earned an impressive 3-0 win over promotion rivals PTT Rayong.
Sriracha more or less called time on Krabi's promotion bid with a goal from Berlin in their 1-0 victory over the Energy.
Chantaburi's first division status finally bit the dust even though they achieved an encouraging 2-2 draw at Phatthalung. An injury time goal ended the Hares 15 game losing streak and kept up their unbeaten record against Phatthalung this season. Dropping four points against Chantaburi could prove costly for the Swiftlets come the end of the season.

Division 2 BKK
Assumption Thonburi 1-0 Samut Prakarn Utd
Central Lions 2-1 Rangsit FC
Kasetsart 5-1 Kasem Bundit
Thai Honda 1-0 Luk Esan
Rayong Utd 1-0 Nonthaburi
Krung Thonburi 2-3 R-BEC
Samut Sakhon 4-1 Globex
Bangkok Christian 0-1 Customs Utd
Chamchuri Utd 2-1 North Bangkok

Thai Honda claimed the league title after their 1-0 home win over Luk Esan. Rayong Utd and Kasetsart look set to join Honda in the playoffs as they kept pace with home wins. If either of Rayong Utd or Kasetsart slip up R-BEC and Samut Sakhon will be ready to pounce.The top five in Division 2 all won this weekend.

Toyota League Cup - Last 8 Second Leg
Chonburi (0) v (1) Bangkok Glass (Tuesday)

BG take a slender 1-0 lead to the Chonburi Stadium. Last season away goals counted double, so one goal from the Rabbits could be enough as the Sharks would then need to hit the back of the net three times

International Friendly
Thailand v Laos (Wednesday)

It's understandable that Winfried Schaefer wants to prepare his Thai squad for the forthcoming AFF Suzuki Cup later in the year, but in reality unless a half decent European or South American side is on show, then it's difficult to aspire fans and players at the business end of the season. Laos will provide the opposition at the Supachalasai as Thailand will field a side without any Bangkok Glass or Chonburi players due to their cup tie 24 hours earlier.

EDIT: This game will be played at the Rajamangala and not the Supachalasai as earlier scheduled.

Weekend Review 11-12 August & Midweek Fixtures

TPL
Buriram Utd 7-2 Chainat
TOT 3-2 Bangkok Glass
Esan Utd 2-1 Thai Port
BBCU 2-2 BEC Tero
Osotspa Saraburi 0-1 Samut Songkhram
TTM 2-2 Army Utd
Wuachon 2-2 Chiang Rai Utd
Chonburi 1-0 Police
Muangthong 3-2 Pattaya

It's was a high scoring Saturday with no fewer than 21 goals being scored in four matches. Buriram United enjoyed their biggest win of the season as they thumped Chainat 7-2. Ekkachai weighed in with a hat-trick as Chainat had Kraikiat dismissed shortly before the interval. It should be noted that the Hornbills were already 3-0 down by this stage.
BEC Tero managed to erase some of the misery of Wednesday's capitulation to Osotspa as the Fire Dragons earned a 2-2 draw with BBCU. Juninho's 78th minute penalty grabbed a point for the Pink Panthers and it maintained his goal per game ratio with five from five now.
The Esan Utd v Thai Port match was a lively encounter which left Port fans tearing their hair out at the end. Both sides missed penalties before Watson made it third time lucky when his spot kick gave the Bangkok side the lead on the hour. Within a couple of minutes, Esan Utd were reduced to 10 men yet they fought back against the odds with two quick goals around the 80 minute mark to complete the double over Port.
As reported earlier, Bangkok Glass shot themselves in the foot again as careless defending cost them dearly at TOT. The Hello Boys won 3-2 and moved onto 28 points.

The action on Mother's Day saw Muangthong maintain their 12 point lead with a tight 3-2 victory over Pattaya. Chonburi and Samut Songkhram both ground out 1-0 wins. The Sharks stay in second place while Samut Songkhram, by their standards, are up to the giddy heights of 14th place. Their goal was scored by Bireme Diouf who appears to have found a new lease of life since returning from Chonburi.
The final two games both ended 2-2. Chiang Rai fought back twice at Wuachon to earn a point as did Army who repeated a similar feat up in Chiang Mai. The game at TTM was lucky to be played out as the pitch resembled something that Tom Daley would dive into.

Division 1
Bangkok Utd 2-1 Bangkok FC
Korat 2-1 Khon Kaen
Raj Pracha 0-4 Suphanburi
Songkla 2-1 Saraburi
JW Rangsit 1-2 Sriracha
PTT Rayong 2-0 Phatthalung
Krabi 3-1 Air Force Utd
Siam Navy 0-3 Ratchaburi
Chantaburi 0-1 FC Phuket

Ratchaburi scored three late goals courtesy of their foreign contingent to earn an encouraging win over Siam Navy while Suphanburi etched themselves into second spot with a comfortable walk in the park at Raj Pracha. Yuki Bamba scored twice as the Warriors won 4-0.
For the second successive Saturday, Bangkok United came from a goal behind to win 2-1. Bolarinwa gave the Bulligans an early lead and it should have been two shortly before the interval. Lee Tuck appeared onside but a poor call from the linesman meant his goal was chopped off. As with last week, Sompong was the match winner with two goals in the second half.
Krabi, Sriracha and PTT Rayong all enjoyed Sunday wins to complete a clean sweep for the top 6.
At the bottom, Songkla came from behind to claim a vital three points as they beat Saraburi 2-1. It was a miserable trip for Saraburi who had Dai Min Yoo ordered off after two yellows, the second of which was for diving. JW Rangsit, Raj Pracha and Chantaburi all lost again.

Division 2 BKK
Rangsit FC 1-0 Rayong Utd
Kasem Bundit 0-0 Samut Prakarn Utd
Globex 2-1 Luk Esan
Customs Utd 2-3 Thai Honda
Bangkok Christian 2-2 Chamchuri Utd
North Bangkok 0-1 Assumption Thonburi
Central Lions 1-4 Kasetsart
Samut Sakhon 2-1 Krung Thonburi
Nonthaburi 2-3 R-BEC

Rayong United's Friday night defeat opened the door to the promotion set, and they all took advantage with wins. There are now only two points separating the top 4 with Samut Sakhon three points further adrift. The action comes thick and fast at the moment with a full round of fixtures on Wednesday evening.

Midweek Fixtures - Wednesday
(FA Cup)
TTM v Korat
Samut Songkhram v Raj Pracha
PTT Rayong v Esan United
Khon Kaen v Chiang Rai Utd
Songkla v Bangkok Utd

Division 2 Bangkok
Thai Honda v Rangsit FC
Assumption Thonburi v Kasem Bundit
R-BEC v Luk Esan
Central Lions v Samut Sakhon
Samut Prakarn utd v Nonthaburi
Kasetsart v Bangkok Christian
Krung Thonburi v Globex
Rayong United v North Bangkok
Chamchuri Utd v Customs Utd

International Friendly
Thailand v Foreign All Stars

This warm-up match for Thailand's AFF Suzuki Cup quest will be played at the Supachalasai Stadium. Predictably, the Thai squad is mainly made up from Muangthong, Chonburi and Buriram United players. The All Star squad is far from the strongest available, but nonetheless I'm sure the foreigners on show will be anxious to demonstrate that they have superior football skills to their hosts. 

Oman 2-0 Thailand

The quest for qualifying for Brazil 2014 ended as Thailand meekly lost 2-0 to Oman.

The crowd in the blazing afternoon sun didn't have long to wait for the opening goal. On 9 minutes, Adbul Aziz Mubarak got behind the Thai back 4 and despite the attention of three defenders, he managed to square the ball to an unmarked Hussain Al Hadri who netted from 12 yards out.

The tempo of the rest of the half was understandably rather slow in the desert heat although Thailand did have a good chunk of the possession without ever threatening Al Habsi in the Oman goal.

On the stroke of half-time, Oman almost doubled their lead as Amad Ali's curling effort hit the bar.

Again the pattern of play at the beginning of the second period mirrored the first half with Oman quite happy to let Thailand have possession in their own half. The Omanis seemed to know that play would eventually break down and they could pounce on the counter.

With Thailand looking like they were running out of time and ideas, they had their best chance of the game when newly introduced substitute, Leesaw, hit the post on 71 minutes.

Oman should have wrapped the game up with 10 minutes left on the clock but Darwish blazed over the goal from six yards out when it was easier to score.

Leesaw was then sent off on the 85th minute for a reckless lunge that struck the falling Al Mukhaini in the chest. The BG man can have zero complaints when he sees the relpay.

The game was over as a contest as the impressive Mubarak beat Kawin at his near post after a swift counter attack.

The 2-0 win was good enough for Oman to progress to the next qualifying stage as Saudi Arabia surrendered a 2-1 lead in Melbourne to lose 4-2 to Australia.

So, it's another disappointing end to a campaign that proved so promising. For the supporters and regular followers of Thai football, it's common knowledge who is responsible for obstructing the advancement of the national side. Let's just say that the blame shouldn't land on the doorstep of Winnie Schaefer and his coaching team. Enough said!!

Oman v Thailand Preview

Oman v Thailand (Wednesday)

Thailand need to win at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat while at the same time they must hope that the Socceroos don't take their foot off the gas and beat Saudi Arabia in Melbourne. An Australia and Thailand double would ensure that the Thais progress to the next qualifying section for the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil.

This qualifying campaign started well for the War Elephants despite losing their opening game 2-1 to Australia in Brisbane. That narrow defeat was followed by a splendid 3-0 win over Oman along with a well earned point in a goalless draw with the Saudis at the Rajamangala Stadium.

After three games, Thailand were in second spot in Group D and looking good for advancing to the fourth round. Since then though, Thailand were easily beaten 3-0 by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh and in November they lost 1-0 at home to Australia at the Supachalasai.

It's been three games now since the Thai attack have scored a goal in this group, plus conceding five goals in two away games suggests that the odds are against Thailand qualifying for the next stage.

It also won't help that the squad that traveled to Oman has several players unavailable through injury and suspension. The lack of adequate preparation caused by an extended 2011 season meant the Schaefer's troops could play only one warm up match which was an unchallenging encounter with Maldives last Friday.

Oman are a tough side to beat on home territory and this was highlighted when they beat Australia 1-0 in a recent World cup qualifier. The Omani side will be backed by a passionate home crowd although last week they overstepped the mark as crowd disturbances marred their 3-0 loss to South Korea in an Olympic qualifier. The Oman Football Association now awaits disciplinary action from FIFA.

The game will be shown live on Channel 9 at 16.30 on Wednesday.

Good luck Thailand!!

Weekend Review 24-26 February

International Friendly
Thailand 3-0 Maldives

As expected, Thailand won comfortably defeating Maldives 3-0 in Chiang Mai with goals from Chatree, Teerasil and a Datsakorn penalty. It's now onto Muscat for the Thai national side to face Oman in their concluding World Cup Group D qualifier on Wednesday.

Div 2 BKK
Kasem Bundit 1-0 Bangkok Christian
Luk Issan Thai Airways 0-2 Krung Thonburi FC
Thai Honda 2-1 Prachinburi FC (Rayong United)
Nontaburi FC 0-1 Samut Sakhon FC
Globex FC 3-2 Rangsit FC
Customs United 4-4 North Bangkok FC
R-BEC Sasana 2-1 Kasetsart
Central Lions FC 2-0 Samut Prakarn Utd
Assumption Thonburi v Chamchuri Utd (Tuesday)

After two games Thai Honda, Globex and Central Lions still have 100% records having taken a maximum 6 points from their first two games. The trio will be joined by Chamchuri on Tuesday evening if they can beat Assumption Thonburi. At the other end of the table, things aren't looking good for Nontaburi, Luk Issan, Rangsit FC and Bangkok Christian who all sit at the bottom with zero points.

Div 2 Central/East
Samut Prakarn FC 0-3 Rayong FC

Rayong FC are showing that they mean business this season as they swept aside Samut Prakarn FC 3-0. The Wild Horses missed out on promotion to Division 1 last season when they conceded an injury time goal to Krabi in the final play off match. Rayong already top the table after two games and I expect that's the position they'll finish in come the end of the season.

Div 2 North East
Nakhon Phanom 3-1 Sisaket United 
Loei City 1-1 Roi Et United 

Nakhon Phanom's 3-1 victory over Sisaket United was a welcome one for the followers of Twitter's #SaveSisaketFC. All four goals came in the second half of this match as SMMTV finally served their audience with some goals.
On Sunday, Loei and Roiet cancelled each other out with a 1-1 draw. 

Weekend 24-26 Feb Preview

International Friendly
Thailand v Maldives (Friday)

This warm-up match will be played at the Chiang Mai Stadium in preparation for the national team's trip to Oman next Wednesday. The Maldives are currently ranked 173 in the World Football Elo rankings, some 63 places below Thailand in 110.

Div 2 BKK
(Saturday)
Kasem Bundit v Bangkok Christian
Luk Issan Thai Airways v Krung Thonburi FC
Thai Honda v Prachinburi FC (Rayong United)
Nontaburi FC v Samut Sakhon FC
(Sunday)
Assumption Thonburi v Chamchuri Utd
Globex FC v Rangsit FC
Customs United v North Bangkok FC
RBAC - BEC Tero Sasana v Kasetsart
Central Lions FC v Samut Prakarn Utd

It's still early doors in the Bangkok region and as I mentioned last week it's far too early to be forecasting any promotion contenders from this batch of teams. Globex, Chamchuri, Kasetsart, North Bangkok, Central, Prachinburi and Thai Honda all accomplished opening day victories. Another 3 points for any of these teams this weekend would move them to the front of the pack for this enduring 34 game season.
Prachinburi FC are now playing in Klaeng, Rayong. In the Thai press this week, they've been referred to as "Prachinburi FC (Rayong United)." Most likely they will eventually evolve into Rayong United dropping any connections with Prachinburi.

Div 2 Central/East
There are three teams in the Central/East region that are playing at stadiums within a stone's throw of Bangkok. Samut Prakarn FC are currently using the Chalerm Prakiat 72 Stadium in Minburi. Thanyaburi Asia United are still at the Chalerm Prakiat Khlong 6 Stadium in Pathumthani and Pathumthani FC are playing at Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University near Nava Nakorn Industrial Estate.
This Sunday, Samut Prakarn FC welcome Rayong FC to the 72nd Anniversary Stadium in Minburi. If previous encounters between these pair are anything to go by, this promises to be a fiercely contested match both on and off the field.

Div 2 North East
Nakhon Phanom v Sisaket United (Saturday 4pm)
Loei City v Roi Et United (Sunday 5pm)

SMMTV, a new Thai media network, are screening live Division 2 games this season. Last weekend they chose two games from the Northern region and rather disappointingly they both finished in goalless draws. This weekend they'll be screening two games from the North East section. On Saturday the controversially newly formed Sisaket United travel to Nakhon Phanom, and Sunday sees the battle between last year's top two, Loei City and Roi Et Utd. 

Thailand 0-1 Australia

Thailand were left barely clinging on to qualification for the 2014 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 loss to Australia at the Supachalasai Stadium. Their faint hopes were kept alive when Oman held Saudi Arabia to a 0-0 draw in Riyadh. In the final game Thailand must win in Oman and hope that the Socceroos can take care of the Saudis in Australia.

This game looked to be heading towards a goalless draw until the two Bretts combined with an unmarked Holman nodding home an Emerton cross with 14 minutes left on the clock.

Australia were subdued for most of the match, and Thailand should have taken the lead on 35 minutes through Suree. He got past Australia's left back, Zullo, and with a clear run on goal he seemed to panic and blasted his shot over the bar. The Chonburi man controlled the through pass perfectly, but with lack of options in the box, he reluctantly took the shot on.

The game appeared to be harmlessly sailing out to a 0-0 draw until Holman netted on the 76th minute. The closest Thailand came to equalizing was when newly introduced substitute, Pipob, headed inches over on 79 minutes.

The Socceroos held out reasonably comfortably after that to book their place in Round 4. It wasn't a great performance for Australia although they'll be happy with the outcome.

For Thailand, it's now 3 games without a goal. The national side has improved massively under Winfried Schaefer and let's hope there will be no knee-jerk reaction from the FAT if Thailand fail to qualify. I was surprised though that the German chose to start with a striker that has only scored one TPL goal this season whilst leaving the lively, Pipob, on the bench. Also why have the top three TPL scorers been omitted from his squad?

A miserable evening was completed for Kirati when he was stretchered off in the 78th minute. The majority of the crowd were unhappy that Australia played on after Kirati crashed into the big Aussie keeper, Mark Schwarzer. After the match the Fulham stopper tweeted "First time tonight I have every played on when a player has gone down 'injured' we just have had enough of the constant diving and acting!"

In Australia's defence, there were three or four occasions when Thai players just lay down waiting for play to be stopped for treatment. The ball was kicked out each time, only for the Thai player to bounce straight off the stretcher back on to the field. Eventually a Thai player, Kirati,  was seriously injured, but the referee and opposition players had had enough by then and played on.

In Thai football culture, play is expected to be stopped any time a player is injured. Unfortunately this rule gets abused with constant faking of injuries especially if a team holds an advantage. Referees are slowly becoming wise to this and there have been times this season when play has been waved on with an injured player lying on the ground much to the bemusement of the Thai crowd. It really irks me when a see a player lying down waiting for treatment as his side are defending. He's basically leaving his side a player short and at a disadvantage. The first rule of football is "PLAY TO THE WHISTLE."
If Thailand want to improve standards in their game then the feigning of injury needs to be stamped out and it must be understood that it is the match officials that decide when play is stopped, not the players!!