Police United 0-4 Chonburi - Match Report: 2010

TPL

Police United 0-4 Chonburi

Thammasat Stadium

Attendance: 5,286

Saturday 19th June, 2010

Match Report
Just prior to kick off we had the mother of all storms, which briefly threatened to see the match postponed. However, a sensible decision by the officials to delay the kick off meant that, when the rain abated, we were able to get underway in nothing more than a light drizzle. The pitch showed absolutely no signs of being affected by the downpour, a credit to its drainage system, and the players were able to play their normal game without fear of drowning.

Both teams started brightly and there was everything to suggest that we were in for a fine evenings entertainment. We weren't to be disappointed. Chonburi took the lead on ten minutes when Phanuwat Jinta slotted home from about twelve yards following a well worked move. And it was to get even better for the visitors a few minutes later when Baga doubled the advantage, after the keeper had failed to hold on to Suree's initial effort. From this point on a Chonburi victory looked like being the only possible outcome and the away support's main topic of conversation centred around next week's trip to Buriram. You'd better order a few extra pies, Kn Newin, it looks like there's going to be a big turnout.

The second half started with the Police carving out a few decent chances for themselves and only some good goalkeeping and inspired defending - including a Chonlatit header, when he was lying face down in the penalty area - kept them at bay. However, any faint hope they may have had about getting back into the match was extinguished when Arthit's right wing corner was helped into the net by a home defender. Three - nil and it was time for the Sharks to turn on the style. We witnessed some lovely passages of play during the last thirty minutes as the players relaxed and started to enjoy themselves.

There was only to be one more goal, in the dying seconds, but what a goal it was. Some sublime passing and movement resulted in Man of the Match (it could easily have been any of the others) Ekkaphan Inthasen finishing from close range. The players and fans celebrated what had been a fine all round performance and a well deserved victory.

I'll close by saying how impressed I was by the stadium. The view I had from the back row right on the halfway line was awesome and the overall feel of the place was quite inspiring. If the authorities were prpepared to spend a couple of million on one or two slight improvements this could be one of the best grounds in the region. I also had beer delivered straight to my seat on a regular basis by one of the many American style food vendors who worked tirelessly throughout the game. It doesn't get much better than this. I can't wait for my next visit.