Navy Rayong 1-2 Thai Port - Match Report: 2009

My match report for Marco's original Thai Port website.

FA Cup Round 3 
Navy Rayong 1-2 Thai Port
Tuesday, July 28, 2009

This was a cracking cup tie. Right from the first whistle both teams showed their attacking intent by getting players forward at every opportunity. The visitors employed what some people like to refer to as an old fashioned centre forward, whereas the home team relied more on pacy wingers.

The deadlock was broken midway through the first half when the Thai Port defence completely failed to react to a right wing corner and the Navy striker had the easy job of heading the ball home unchallenged. Cue scenes of celebration in the two main stands and some defiant chanting and flag waving by the pocket of 100 or so orange and blue clad opposition supporters sitting directly in front of me.

There were no more goals in the first half but one golden chance fell to Thai Port when the home keeper made a complete hash of a clearance. However, the rather startled forward failed to make the most of the opportunity and the shot, such as it was, sailed harmlessly wide.

If the first period had been pretty even the second forty five was virtually all Navy Rayong. In spite of the fact that they arrived about five minutes after everyone else for the resumption the home side looked like they were on a mission to finish things off. Roared on by a crowd which had swollen to about 3,500 they tore into their opponents. But, in the space of about 60 seconds the game was to take a rather unexpected twist.

There looked to be little danger when Thai Port were awarded a free kick about 30 yards from goal. It wasn't the best strike I've ever seen but somehow Jirawat's shot found it's way through a crowded penalty area and into the net. 1-1.

Within a few seconds of the restart the ball was worked back to Jingorn in the Navy goal and it was time for his party piece again. This time Teerawut made no mistake as he seized on the second poor clearance of the afternoon and coolly slotted home.

The home fans couldn't believe it. From being in complete control they had slipped behind and their team were now chasing the game. Wave after wave of attack followed but the Thai Port defence stood firm, with Moise looking particularly impressive; his headed clearance off the goal line was superb.

At the final whistle the visiting players and supporters celebrated a hard won victory and I came away fully satisfied after witnessing a very entertaining game.