26th August, 2006
There was a lovely atmosphere, as the supporters mingled happily, swapping stories and buying each others souvenirs; I purchased a Korat Stingray shirt and a commemorative t-shirt. We also attracted a lot of passing trade and visits from curious passers by, who were out for an afternoon stroll or on their way to the market. At that time, the domestic leagues weren't very popular, or even well known, so the majority of those who dropped in were slightly bemused by it all.
The highlight of the day was a football match between a team representing the Sports Authority of Thailand and Chonburi Fan Club, on that small pitch in the shadow of the more imposing national stadium. We had been taking training very seriously and even had a couple of warm up games, including one against Bang Bueng FC, a semi-professional side, who later played in the Thai league.
It was rumoured that our opponents would be fielding a couple of "ringers" so we were determined to give a good account of ourselves. I must admit that I don't remember too much about the game itself, but I do recall that I was lucky enough to get on the score sheet and we won, 4-3. The intensive preparation had been worth it.
In the evening, most of the other fans drifted away, but, for some reason that I've never really been able to establish, the Chonburi contingent ended up in a meeting room with the SAT hierarchy. I wasn't particularly interested in what they were discussing - which, with hindsight, is a shame, as it turned out to be the future of Thai football - so I sat with a few other like minded Sharks, enjoying a couple of cold drinks. I felt I'd earnt them!
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