NEW!! 9,10,11,12 - Chonburi's Highest Scoring Matches: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019

A feature on the good, the bad, the ugly and the comical of the six highest scoring matches involving Chonburi. A crazy 570 minutes (one game went to extra time) that produced a total of 60 goals, at an average of one every nine and half minutes. Now, that’s entertainment!

12 (Twelve)

Chonburi 7-5 Chiang Mai

(21/4/19 TPL)

How do you write a report for a match like this? Ninety minutes of absolute mayhem with more incident and excitement than we usually get in a whole season. It was madness, I tell ya. Madness! There’s no point in trying to analyse the game, focus on the numerous mistakes made by the players on both teams or criticise the tactics. No, it’s far better to concentrate on the fact that we were regally entertained by two teams who tore up all the coaching manuals and played as if their lives depended on it. Just like we used to in the school playground. I don’t think I’ve ever had as much fun inside a football ground as I did yesterday evening. And I doubt I will again. Although with this Chonburi team…anything is possible!

Dale Farrington

11 (Eleven)

Bangkok Glass 7-4 Chonburi

(1/7/18 TPL)

When the final whistle went, we just looked at each other and shrugged. What else could we do? A couple of dodgy refereeing decisions aside – and he certainly favoured the home team all night – there was nothing really to get annoyed about. It was a freak show. An aberration. Something we’ll be able to tell our grandkids – and anyone else within earshot – all about in the future. We’d used two goalkeepers (although not at the same time. Which probably wouldn’t have made any difference) and conceded seven goals. We’d scored four too – equalling our highest league tally of the year – but it had all felt so strange.

Dale Farrington

10 (Ten)

Chonburi 4-6 Bangkok Glass (AET)

(8/8/18 League Cup)

Someone questioned a few weeks ago why I watch Thai football if I’m so negative about it. This is why. No plastic English PL for me, thank you. With its no limit on foreigners nutty idea, built to bolster Murdoch’s bank balance and sod everything else, though people are too stupid to realise it. No, last night’s match was right up there with the ‘Parrot Sketch’ and ‘Fork ‘andles’. From a footballing point of view it highlighted the woeful quality of teams, officials and players on show every week at many grounds, but for the neutral, just pure entertainment. And what a roller coaster.

Peter Reeves

9 (Nine)

FC Tokyo 9-0 Chonburi

(9/2/16 AFC CL)

Tonight was just a culmination of all the problems we’ve been highlighting week in, week out. But, apart from proving our defence is shite and we’ve got players that simply aren’t good enough, the one  thing that also stood out for me was that almost all the other players on the pitch haven’t got the stomach for a scrap when the going gets tough. Nobody on that pitch tonight was prepared to fight and chase back and close the opposition down. Not one player was prepared to put themselves on the line. We didn’t have one single organiser out there to gee people up, get the shape of the side back and get them working again. Do they offer season ticket refunds?

Brian Enever

9 (Nine)

Chonburi 7-2 Chainat

(9/7/16 TPL)

At the end of the match my first thoughts were that you could have gone to the intensive care unit of the local hospital and picked a team that would have beaten Chainat tonight. I have got used to watching poor quality here, like many of us foreigners I suspect, you get used to it, almost conditioned to it, even make excuses for it as many do, you don’t really expect very much else most of the time. But this? Chonburi had not played like seven goals good, they were playing a team that played like ten goals bad. But in fairness you can only beat what’s put in front of you and they certainly did that. I have seen some very poor teams here in two years but nothing like this. 

Peter Reeves

9 (Nine)

Bangkok Utd 7-2 Chonburi

(5/8/17 TPL)

This could easily have been 11 or 12 conceded, not 7. Chonburi let in 7 but got out of jail from a defeat that would have made Super Power look like a mid-table team. The Angels players were having a great time. Smiles all over their faces even when they were missing simple chances in the box. As a neutral, this was uncomfortable to watch. You feared for what was going to happen to the Sharks. I can’t imagine what it must be like to support them. Credit to those who still go. Many have long since given up with the once mighty Chonburi.

Peter Reeves

Chonburi's Tour Of The North East: 2009

During the 2009 mid season break, Chonburi embarked on a goodwill tour of the north east of Thailand. In the space of eight days they played four fixtures against the local regional league teams, sold numerous scarves and replica shirts, and won themselves a lot of new fans. Fortunately, I was able to get to one of the games – against a side representing Nakhon Ratchasima. You can read my report from the day, below.

NAKHON RATCHASIMA XI 0-4 CHONBURI

Scorers: Pipob On-Mo (2), Soilson Rodregues DaSilva, Teerasak Po-On

80th Birthday Stadium

Friday 10th July, 2009

Chonburi’s tour of the north-east has more than just a touch of the Harlem Globetrotters about it. So much so, that I half expected them to run out to the strains of “Sweet Georgia Brown”. However, it was the usual dirgelike anthem that heralded the arrival of the two teams for this rather strangely scheduled fixture. As comforting as it was to be attending a 3 o’clock Saturday afternoon kick off, I couldn’t help reflecting on the fact that Chonburi were only the support act for a Division 2 (North Eastern Region) league match. How the mighty have fallen.

The game itself was nothing more than a glorified training workout. The home team was made up of triallists, schoolboys and possibly a couple of blokes who’d just been passing. And the visitors – shorn of their internationals – were a mix of first team regulars, fringe players and new signings. However, it was my first chance to see Michael Byrne in a Chonburi shirt so I was quite looking forward to that.

Needless to say, the match wasn’t a classic, but it gave the current TPL leaders a few opportunities to experiment. Zico started with a front two of Pipob and Byrne. They looked quite impressive together, with the new man being very busy and always finding space in which to receive the ball. In spite have already having played two other games in a short space of time, the Welshman showed good energy levels and a willingness to put himself about. He’s going to be a great addition to an already strong squad.

In the second half, Byrne was dropped back to the right side of midfield and our, recently acquired striker, Da Silva entered the fray. It only took the big, old-fashioned centre forward (as I feel obliged to call him) a few seconds to get on the score sheet. Unfortunately I missed the goal as I was still downstairs re-fuelling and watching the locals clamour around the visiting Chonburi merchandise stall.

On returning to my seat, I sat back to watch the shot count and substitute count grow to astronomical levels. In spite of this, the Chonburi players did seem to be taking things seriously and hoping to prove their worth, having been given the chance in the absence of their more illustrious colleagues. Da Silva, in particular, was on a mission. He lambasted a team mate for a poor pass and later indulged in a frenzy of arm waving and gesticulating when a through ball was knocked too far in front of him. I guess it bodes well that he seemingly cares so much.

Overall it is difficult to see what Zico will have learned from this from a tactical point of view, but the match will have generated a lot of goodwill and we’ve won a few more friends.

Finally, I’d just like to say what an impressive stadium Korat has. It’s one of the best I’ve visited in Thailand – including both the big ones in Bangkok – and hopefully it won’t be too long before it’s hosting top level football.

CHONBURI’S TOUR OF THE NORTH EAST – JULY, 2009
Sunday 5th July: Chaiyapoom 2-6 Chonburi
Wednesday 8th July: Khon Kaen 3-2 Chonburi
Friday 10th July: Nakhon Ratchasima 0-4 Chonburi
Sunday 12th July: Buriram 1-2 Chonburi

Season Review by Brian Enever: 2014

FAN REVIEW OF THE SEASON: 26th November, 2014

Chonburi season ticket holder Brian Enever reviews the 2014 season.

What is your overall assessment of the season?

Exceeded expectations, even if the end was extremely disappointing.  If I'd been offered 2nd place in the TPL and an FA Cup final spot pre-season I'd have grabbed it. 

Who is your player of the season?

Dos Santos. For me, he has been head and shoulders above everybody else all season. Whether playing in defence, midfield or even up front when we've been chasing the game, he's been outstanding and, week after week, our most consistent player.

What is the biggest improvement this season?

No first half tactical substitutions!

Every good team has to have a strong spine to the side.  In my opinion we have improved, especially in the second half of this season, because our spine has played much better and more consistently than in recent seasons.

There's no doubting Sinthaweechai's ability and this season he's pulled off some outstanding saves for us at vital times.

Whether Sutinun has partnered Dos Santos or Jackie our central defensive pairing have played to a consistently high level all season and (almost) always looked in full control.

In midfield, Adul's return to form coincided with our long unbeaten run while Kushida is much better when he's played a bit further forward. And Dos Santos has been outstanding when he's played in the holding midfield role.

Mineiro came in during the transfer window, settled in quickly and provided the missing link, between our defence/midfield  and front/wide players. A quality player.

And Thiago up front. His movement and goals are second to none in the TPL. He was sorely missed when he was out with an injured shoulder and, like Adul, his return coincided with our exceptionally good second half to the season.

Wada's tactics have obviously contributed greatly to this. We've defended higher up the pitch and denied space to the opposition. Plus we've kept a better shape, played a passing game, but with more determination, and moved the ball more sharply.

What are the major disappointments this season?

Both full backs, plus the wide players.

Wada leaving.

Replacing both Leandro and Quero with Jaime.

What was your favourite and least favourite home match?

Favourite:  For me the home wins against Buriram Utd, Muang Thong Utd and BEC Tero can't be separated.

Least favourite:  TOT, the league had (virtually) gone, it was the last game of the season and everybody seemed depressed at how the last two games had panned out.

What was your favourite and least favourite away match?

Favourite:  Bangkok Glass (including our webmaster's interview with their chairman)

Least favourite:  Bangkok Utd away was the worst I've seen us play. The game at Chainat proves you will never beat corruption under the present system.

What was the most disappointing game?

The FA Cup final. Both the team selection and the tactics were (and still are) a complete mystery to me.

What type of new players would you like to see coming to the club?

A new right back and right sided midfield player. A left sided midfield player (with Nattaphong moving to left back, he's much too negative at left midfield), or a left full back and a left sided midfield player, plus a quality ball playing central midfielder to provide extra competition in that area.

Which players are surplus to requirements?

Chonlatit (at least at full back), Korakot (ditto), Bamba (he's had to play in so many different roles he can't impose himself on any. Plus a victim of the new foreigner rule) and, unfortunately, Pibob's age has caught up with him. He's at least a yard slower and could only be effective for short periods as an impact player now.

What was the funniest incident?

Watching Jaime trying to do an impression of a footballer.

How would you assess the head coach’s achievements?

We all wondered how he would do with a squad inherited from Heng and no chance of bringing in his own players. We starting the season indifferently but Wada gradually started imposing his ideas which gave us a better balance and shape to the side of last season. By the middle of June we had started imposing ourselves on the opposition and taking control of matches. From this point our confidence grew and we starting our long eighteen game unbeaten run.

Our improvement on last season and Wada's influence was now apparent and we had a real chance of doing the double. Although towards the end of the season, and especially against 'weaker' opposition, some of the team selection and tactics seemed very strange, so much so that we started to question whether Wada actually had full control over those areas.

Over all I think Wada had a successful first season and, had he continued, I think we would have been serious contenders for honours next season.  Sadly we will never know. I think we have lost a good coach.

Winning manager of the year in his first season also bears this out.

Given the chance what would you say to the club management?

The team manager and coaches are the (football) experts. The manager is there to take control of the training, pick the team AND the tactics. KEEP AWAY!

Give marks out of ten for:

The Team.......................8

The Coach/Manager.......8

The Fans........................6 (at home. Too many stayed away) 9 (away)

The Club Management...4

What are your hopes for next season?

I hope Jadet can build on what Wada started this season. He will almost certainly get the backing of the supporters, I just hope he's not there as a puppet for the owners.

Is there anything else you'd like to add.

A really disappointing end to a season that promised so much.

Losing our momentum due to the enforced shutdown didn't help. The corrupt farce at Chainat was probably the most blatant I have seen and effectively took the title from us but there were other reasons.

We lost the league by three points BUT: defeats at Army and Bangkok Utd , along with draws at Songkhla, PTT Rayong, Sisaket, Chai Nat and against TOT twice meant we dropped a total of EIGHTEEN points against teams from the bottom half of the TPL.

I think most of those dropped points can be put down to strange team selection and tactics, as can the FA Cup final defeat to Bangkok Glass, a team we'd already done the double over this season.

Interview With Yaz Banz: 2012

My pre AFF Suzuki Cup final interview with Singapore fan, Yaz Banz, from 18th December, 2012.

Q - Please can you start by introducing yourself.

A - I'm Yaz Banz, a Singaporean in my 40s. Having spent over 15 years in the junior academy scene as a coach firstly and eventually managed a prominent academy for 10 years, I'm a firm believer of good foundation in youth development. I have also travelled extensively to Europe with my academy for camps & tournaments.I’m currently a facility manager for a brand new football and futsal hub in Turf City Sports Park.

Q - What is the capacity of the stadium?

A - 8,000

Q - How many tickets were reserved for Thai fans?

A - Apparently, only 400.

Q - How did the local fans feel that the FAS handled the selling of the tickets?

A - Obviously there were disappointments, bearing in mind the limited capacity, but I do feel that in fairness, adequate security or simple barricades at a certain stretch should have been employed to deter queue-jumpers as reported. As with the semifinal, there was more demand than supply for the fever that engulfed the football masses, the FA should have anticipated it.

Q - Have you got your ticket for the first leg?

A - Unfortunately, no. My job requires me to host a first-ever live screening of the final in my facility.

Q - How confident are the Singapore fans of winning the final?

A - Although being tagged as the underdog, most fans I believe are pretty confident that Lions are capable of getting a positive result in the 1st leg. That would then set the stage for a thrilling 2nd leg and optimism for an upset of sorts.

Q - Would you be happier playing the first leg away?

A - Although fans' support is always crucial for a team to lift their game to emerge victorious, ultimately it is the players' effort on the day that truly counts. Having said that, playing away or home in the 1st leg never would really be seen as an advantage for the better team on the night should prevail.

Q - Do you think the artificial surface will benefit the home team?

A - Familiarity with the surface and close proximity with the fans (a compact stadium without a running track) duly serve a slight advantage for the home team. It'll be interesting to see how quickly the away team adapt and impose their playing style on such a surface.

Q - The domestic game seems to be having a few problems at the moment, do you think success for the national team will help the local league?

A - There's no doubt that a national team success would certainly boost the spirit of the entire football community but in truth, it will only be temporary. There are many factors affecting the SLeague which require improvements for the longer term but as in other sports, football need icons and what better way to gain enhanced support from fans with a record-setting winning national team. Achieving that is possible but sustaining the interest is another ball game altogether. Hate to say this but administrators do have a tough task in hand.

Q - What were the expectations for the national team ahead of this tournament?

A - As preparation, we're all aware that results in friendlies prior to this tournament didn't really give fans high hopes but as the tournament progresses, Lions have shown they are hungry to come out top with their uplifting performances. They are very close now and do sense that the players themselves want to be recognised as the nation's heroes by emulating the previous teams.

If reports are true that it'll be Raddy Avramovic's last stint with the national team, I'm certain the players would want to present him a memorable parting gift of which he could be proud. However, win or not, it's time for a change to refresh Singapore's football.

Q - How much coverage has the tournament had in the local press?

A - As expected, bountiful coverage was granted for the team before and during the tournament almost daily. The fever catches on during the semifinals with tickets being sold-out although one would wish for a bigger capacity stadium for it to be a better evaluation.

And again, I do wish the print media would grant the same coverage for the SLeague for help is needed to liven it with the hope that it would garner enhanced interests from fans and sponsors, alike. A league is a platform where ideally talents are nurtured and discovered for future national teams.

Q - What do the local pundits think will happen in the final?

A - The vibes I get is that it'll be tough for Lions to overcome the War Elephants but it is not mission impossible, surely.

Q - Which team have impressed you most in the tournament?

A - My personal favourite has always been Thailand. At youth level, I have always been impressed with their approach to the game. In this tournament itself, Thailand have been displaying what I expected of them. The team to beat, I would say.

Q - Which players have impressed you most in the tournament?

A - Teerasil Dangda, for obvious reasons. He's an exceptional player with great technique and clinical finishing. Another favourite is Lions' captain, Shahril Ishak.

Q - Which Thai players do you think will cause you problems and why?

A - It has to be Datsakorn. Although others alongside him are threats in their own ways, I rate his distribution of passes very highly.

Q - What are your impressions of the Thailand coach?

A - My stark observation for the difference between him and others before him (Withe, Reid & Robson), is that he has his own coaching team, who assist him greatly.

Q - How often do you go to watch the national team?

A - Only once this year, the 2-2 draw versus Malaysia in Jalan Besar. It was to me, an experiment, that nearly failed on the night. But with hindsight, I can see it was part of the building process.

Q - What have been your highlights watching the national team?

A - Emergence of younger players who are finally finding their feet in this current set-up, especially the goalkeepers. Much has been said of the predictability in Lions' game and for betterment, I do wish for an improved style of play.

Q - Which Singapore players should we look out for and why?

A - Shahdan Sulaiman - if he is especially given a free-role. He has been rather restricted in most matches.

Q - Will you be coming to the second leg?

A - Would love to, for I've attended numerous matches in Supachalasai but work commitment mean I have to settle for the telly. A final's atmosphere usually more electric than the norm.

Q - Would you care to give us an overall score prediction?

A - I usually abstain from making predictions. All I'm hoping for is a thrilling two-legged final. A showcase for Asean football.

Q - Is there anything else you'd like to add?

A - All along, for obvious reason, this is the final I wished for, We’ll see who'll gain the bragging rights to be the undisputed 'King of Asean football' with a 4th title until the next AFF Cup comes along.

NEW!! Alternative TV? by Russ John: 2020

Football on TV in Thailand - Quo vardis?

by Russ John

First of all let me preface this piece with an admission. I am a lazy, sofa loving, “watch all sport on TV jockey” who by dint of early retirement has the luxury of sitting at home most weekends (and often weekdays) watching sport on the tellie!!

Without a particular sport on TV and particularly live sport on TV, that sport will die. Taken away from the sofa hugging masses, the sport surely will quietly evaporate from the sporting public’s mind like a lump of lard melting in a warming frying pan.

It’s not just the viewing, it’s the accompanying publicity and exposure - the news bulletins, the newspaper reports and the “ineterweb thingie” stuff generated by TV coverage that forbids us, the public from letting it sink into memory.

I well remember ,way back in the UK, when sports such as athletics and speedway were televised, sometimes at peak viewing times - everyone knew the names of the top athletes and riders and viewers eagerly awaited their weekly fix. Then petty squabbling over money led to the lack of coverage and the aforementioned sports lapsed into sports that only real enthusiasts could be bothered to take an interest in.

The EPL is a classic example of a sport being able to maintain a worldwide presence, with all the commercial opportunities that that provides, by negotiating preferential TV rights. Of course it goes goes without saying that revenues from TV rights keeps most sports and football clubs in particular afloat financially.

The ongoing impasse that is currently consuming the thoughts of football fans in Thailand is the threat of a potential financial crisis for Thai clubs caused by an ongoing spat between the FAT and current TV rights holder Truevisions. The old adage that “the farmer and the  cowpokes should be friends is relevant here.

At this point, a note to football administrators everywhere, do not fall out with the company that is your major source of income. The  fact that the FAT did not consult with Truevisions about dropping the number of clubs in the TPL with the obvious reduction on number of fixtures that can be televised and the refusing to negotiate on the restart of the current season are examples of a complete lack of consultation and communication been the two parties The marriage of Truevisions and the TPL is a marriage made in heaven - a local, reliable national TV provider, surely a mutually advantageous deal could be and should be hammered out.

So with True TV coverage about to cease in October, the spectre of no TV coverage for the current season after that date and other companies hovering, praying mantis like, for a cut price deal that no one else is interested in could spell a financial apocalypse for Thai football.

I can’t help thinking that powerful Truevisions have given the FAT the proverbial two fingers and I don’t blame them - wake up FAT , don’t forget who butters your bread !!

One thing is for sure if a TV deal is not done, Thai football will die a painful death!!

Tap Room - What Have Been Your Impressions Of The Opening Few Weeks Of The TPL Season?: 2015

What have been your impressions of the opening few weeks of the TPL season? 
16th March, 2015

Reply #1
Name: Russ John
Team supported: Nakhon Ratchasima
Twitter: @russreport

The season so far has provided exciting and competitive football matches on the whole with good atmosphere at games – so important for the TV audience – as a side note, satisfied TV viewers are vital as they may become tomorrow’s ticket paying fans.

The stand out team has, of course been Army but can they sustain their dynamic form. I feel that the usual suspects will bubble to the top ie Buriram and MT United, the latter whom I was impressed with when they beat NRFC in game 1. Chainat and Suphanburi have also impressed me.

At the bottom, I see no hope for TOT and unfortunately the 3 promoted teams will continue to struggle within a pretty strong Premier League line up. Chang Rai, Tero, Chonburi and Port have yet to impress and Chonburi aside, these teams will occupy bottom half positions.

No season report can be written without a comment on refereeing standards. Acknowledging how difficult the role of the officials in the modern game is, with the attendant constant need to cheat by players, one has to comment upon the lack of consistency of standards. I think we can all cope with poor refereeing - as long as it is consistently poor but...

Penalty decisions, decisions that can dictate the outcome of a game (a season sometimes), have been poorly officiated. There have been 2 or 3 nailed on clear penalty claims dismissed and several non-penalties awarded due to simulation and basic lack of knowledge of the rules of the game. The only answer that I can see is some or more training in the form of referee’s workshops.

Finally, the Swatcats. 6 points from 5 games, albeit those points coming from victories over fellow strugglers represents a decent start. All Swatcats fans will acknowledge that we are not going to set the world on fire this year. Survival will be a plus. Without risk of bias, I feel that The TPL needs a potentially huge and well supported provincial team like the Swatcats - it will be a real shame if they are relegated. I personally think that they will survive – just. Watch out for Dominic Adeyeah – he will cause problems for most defences.

Reply #2
Name: Tommie Duncan
Team supported: Port FC
Twitter: @TJRDBKK

As a Thai Port fan I was going into the season with dread. Losing Bowling, the majority of the team, and bringing in a coach without a proven track record who chose a less than stellar side due to monetary constraints and who knows what other reasons did not really have me fired up. Aside from a few good friendlies the season looked pretty grim.

My attitude did a quick 180 a week before the season when Madame Pang bought the team and brought Thai Port into the world of TPL teams with money. In several ways this change was felt immediately with a freshly painted stadium, a more professional staff at the shop (albeit they still don’t have that ticket thing down yet), more people at the ground, and a positive outlook for the future.

Of course this has not translated into on field performance. The first 5 matches have yielded only 3 points. Terribly hard schedule, but the team should have been able to sneak at least two more points out of those games. Without Madame Pang there would be a lot of despair at PAT, but I do think Uncle will be gone and the team will make a lot of changes at the break. Bringing in a good foreign coach with eyes toward the future that young Thai players want to play for makes sense. If Port can stay up this season then it should be steady improvement down the road.

The rest of the league- Buriram the clear shining star. Seems they will run away with it. Suphan looks very promising, Glass as well. Army is off to a great start; but sustainable? BU up and coming? MTU and Chon do not appear as strong as in years past. The rest of the teams elicit a “meh.” Relegation fight should be entertaining. Hope we are not to big a part of it.

With more and more restrictions on foreign players I don’t really look for any marked increase in the level of play. It’s decreased every year I have been a fan. I really miss how things were my first year, with five foreigners on the pitch. The matches were much more enjoyable to watch. I’m all for developing local talent but what I want is to see great football and a highly competitive league with teams at parity. No salary cap and the restrictions on foreign players ensure we will never see that.

As usual the officiating has been abysmal. 5 weeks in and we have already seen a rash of awful calls. Every year I think, “They can’t get any worse.” Every year I am proven wrong. It really is Reetard Central out there. Maybe they train them to be that way. No one can be that incompetent.

And what’s up with this schedule? One game in a month! Time to do away with the Songkhran break.

Well, buckle your seat belts folks. It’s always entertaining and it will be this year as well; both on and off the pitch.

Reply #3
Name: Paul Murphy
Team supported: Army Utd
Twitter: PaulmurphyBKK

The season has started well, with a lot of closely fought games.

Of course, it's good to see Army Utd on top, especially given the loss of last season's two best players - Botti and Kapralik - and our 1st choice goalkeeper, Sarawut. Most fans agreed at the start of the season that the central midfield pair, Anuwat and Tossawat, would have to raise their games and they have responded with performances that have earned international call-ups. Melvin De Leeuw and Kai Hirano have been great additions so far and new goalkeeper Hassan Sunny looked excellent in his first two games before getting injured. Coach Gary Stevens seems to have forged a good team spirit, which may not keep us at the top for much longer but has allowed fans to raise what were modest expectations.

Like Russ, I agree the current league table will be quite different by mid-season but I can see Suphanburi and Bangkok Glass having good seasons, with possible Top 4 finishes. Buriram have been very impressive in the ACL and it's difficult to see anyone stopping them taking a 3rd straight title, especially with their new Brazilian strikers looking so strong.

The relegation spots look likely to be filled by TOT, Navy and Saraburi at this stage but the likes of Thai Port and Nakhon Ratchasima should get stronger after shaky starts.

I liked the look of Ratchaburi when I saw them. They played some nice football in the 1st half against Army and the 3-1 defeat was harsh on them. I can see them in the top 6. Chonburi appear to be suffering a hangover from last season's disappointments and it's difficult to see them challenging for the title again.

The current break is a bit ridiculous, just five games in, but T.I.T. Enjoying the season so far and Army's form certainly helps.

Reply #4
Name: Rob McEvoy
Team supported: n/a
Twitter: @robmcevoythai

It hasn't been disappointing but after the Thai national team’s success perhaps underwhelming. The star Thai players haven’t been noticeable yet.

The current break is a nonsense if you’re trying to produce a successful league. These are structural things that could be changed with some planning. Stop messing with the schedule.

Live games are still great but the TV product seems to be getting worse. No one would watch a TV game and get excited to go along to the stadium. That is still a big negative.

I am pleased for Gary Stevens that Army Utd are going well.

And as a neutral, I'll continue to defend the refs. There are bad decisions everywhere in this world of Mourinhos. Thai refs are not that bad 99% of the time. You can't only moan about decisions against your team. However, I wish linesman would let more offsides go.

I’ve also noticed a slight trend towards less kicking the ball out for non injuries and less non injuries in general. And more importantly, MTU seem to have dispensed with the huddle. Say what you like, but they are trend setters. Let's hope so.

Reply#5
Name: Brian Enever
Team supported: Chonburi
Twitter: n/a

The start of the season has been a bit of a mixture so far. Firstly we've seen both very bad and very good refereeing. Of course we all acknowledge just how difficult the job is but the lack of consistency, even by the same referee in the same match, is probably our biggest gripe. Nothing new there though.

As Tommie suggests, the further restrictions in foreign players will definitely not improve the standard of football this season, so signing the right foreign players has become even more vital.
Another problem has been the lack of a close season break for the Thai international players. At Chonburi, even after just a few games, they look jaded at times and a yard slow already.

After five games the league is just starting to take shape, with the likes of Bangkok Glass, Supanburi, and Muang Thong vying with The Army (who are probably exceeding expectations) at the top while TOT, Saraburi and The Navy already expecting a long hard slog. Although Buriram have had a mixed start they've been concentrating on the ACL and they're looking good so I expect them to start climbing the table. They're probably favourites for another title.

The one inconsistent team at the moment is Chonburi. Although we possibly exceeded expectations a bit last season, in Wada we had found a coach that organized us, got the team playing a system that got the maximum out of the players and, week after week, we played good football, especially during the second half of the season. We weren't just picking up points we were more than matching the top sides with the quality of our football and were deserved winners against the likes of Buriram and Muang Thong.

I must admit that, unlike most others, I was sceptical when Jadet was appointed our new coach. I wasn't around during his last (and successful) spells here so have only had his more recent appointments elsewhere to judge him by. And continual bottom half positions didn't inspire me with confidence. Surely a quality coach (even without massive resources) should be getting his teams into a more comfortable, mid table, position.

We had a poor preseason which we hoped was down using a lot of fringe players while none of our international and foreign players were available. But, with basically the same team as last year, things haven't improved since the start of the season. We are far too inconsistent and don't seem to have any pattern or shape to our game. We are disjointed when we have the ball, with our lack of movement meaning our options are far too limited. When we haven't got the ball we don't defend as a unit, and our two fullbacks are consistently being caught out of position.

In Dos Santos we probably have one of the best centre backs in the TPL but Jadet insists on playing him in midfield. But a central midfielder in a midfield four he most definitely is not. His movement, especially when he hasn't got the ball is all wrong and, when he has got the ball, pass and move isn't part of his game, he's a defender and it shows. And that in turn leaves Adul with far too much ground to cover. He's just chasing shadows.

For me, last week's game against Buriram highlighted just how far back into the pack we have gone. Yes we came away with a point, but we defended almost from the first minute and rode our luck on numerous occasions to achieve that. We were second best in almost all areas of the park and never looked like competing effectively as an attacking force.

I would normally give a lot more time for the coach but, at the moment, I can't honestly see what sort of system he's trying to introduce or how, playing the way we are, we are going to improve with time.

I do hope I'm wrong and this is a 'transitional' period with our inconsistencies and shortcomings being just a temporary blip while the players get used to Jadet's system. If I'm not, and Jadet doesn't change the way we play, unfortunately I can only see us finishing up mid table, which after continually finishing in the top three, would be a disaster.

The Final Word
Name: Russ John
Team supported: Nakhon Ratchasima
Twitter: @russreport

Some very interesting comments from the various contributors. Generally pretty positive outlook for the season ahead I think. It’s great to hear “farang” viewpoints on the TPL – I just wonder what your average Thai supporter thinks about the progress (or lack thereof) of their country’s top football league.
Agree with points on refereeing – mostly Ok but some room maybe for improvement. Refereeing decisions are the main topic of football discussion around the world – long may it last!!!

I think that the League as an entity is improving year on year – weaker, less well supported teams are being weeded out via relegation and more ambitious teams with greater expectations are replacing them. I look forward to a league where attendances never fall below 5000 which I believe should be an absolute minimum figure for a viable spectator sport.

Breaks in the season – absolutely ridiculous – it just shows where the TPL is in the pecking order – bottom. Football matches and seasons rely on continuity - what a great idea, start the season with 5 matches, wet everyone’s appetite and then put things on hold – what great insight and planning. I think that there are 2 more breaks to come - what a mess.

The league needs credibility. Premier League teams with no home, missing the first 15 minutes of televised matches due to Junta TV and nonsensical breaks in the season do nothing to help build confidence in the individuals who run the sport.

Finally, foreign imports. If attendances are low, the product must be substandard. Whilst I acknowledge that more imports might interfere with the progress of young Thai players. Look where Thailand is in the FIFA standings – Thais are poor at football – period. Get more imports in, improve the standards of football, get crowds up, then and only then start feeding in good Thai players.

The future of the TPL in far more important than the sentimentalism of persevering with old school poorly run clubs who cannot attract fans, it is far more important than the short term view of playing sub standard local players. Change needs to come…and quickly.

Interview With Noah Chivuta: 2016

My interview with Nakhon Ratchasima player, Noah Chivuta, from 20th April, 2016

Q - Hello, Noah. How are you?
I am blessed thanks and how are you?

Q - All good, thanks. Are you ready to answer a few questions?
Yes. Go ahead.

Q - What did you do over the Songkran break?
I just went to a quite resort to rest and recharge. And stay away from getting wet!

Q - Do players enjoy these breaks or would they prefer to keep playing?
A short break is OK, but this long one is not good, because you have to start again like it’s preseason. Even the EPL plays on Boxing Day because they know long breaks are not good. I think we should learn from that.

Q - 32,600 at Buriram Utd v Chonburi on Friday. Do you think there is a case for introducing Songkran fixtures?
I think there should be games during this period. It can be part of the celebrations and you can have more people watching. They are on holiday and this would be a good time to see their local team playing.

Q - And talking of attendances, you get good crowds at Nakhon Ratchasima, what affect does this have on the players?
It helps us, not hinder us. It's a player’s dream to play in front of a full stadium and do your best for the fans. And I believe it will be full on Sunday.

Q - How have Nakhon Ratchasima started the season?
We haven't started as well as we expected, but we will improve. So far we have lost games through our mistakes, and not been outplayed by teams who are much better than us.

Q - What were the expectations for Nakhon Ratchasima at the start of the season?
My expectations were to improve on our performance last season.

Q - So, from here on in, what would you consider to be a good season for Nakhon Ratchasima?
Still the same. It will be a good season if we can improve from on last season’s position.

Q - How happy have you been with your own form?
I am very happy with my form, but as a player I am never fully satisfied. So I work hard to improve more and become a better player every game I play.

Q - Which PLT teams have impressed you so far?
Ratchaburi. I can  only really judge the teams we have played against. Ratchaburi played well and they didn't allow us to play our own game

Q - What are your thoughts on Chonburi's form this season?
They are a good team, but they haven't started as well as you would expect from a very big club like them.

Q - Which Chonburi players are you most wary of and why?
They are all good players in that team. And we respect them all. We plan to play them as a team, and not concentrate on individuals.

Q - What are your expectations for Sunday's match?
It will be a good, tough game. Both teams are coming into the match from losses, so we both need the points. It will be a good game for the fans to enjoy.

Q - Which of your players do we most need to be wary of and why?
Ha, ha ha! Not me of course! We play collectively as a team collectively and, on a good day, we can surprise anyone. That's what makes us dangerous.

Q - You're 32 now, so what are your ambitions for the rest of your career?
My ambition is to help the team make history, by playing in AFC one day, by winning the cup or the league.. And I want people to remember me in this town, when I leave. Like I said, I am blessed, so all the teams I play for make history. Already this one has been champions of Division 1.

Q - And after you finish playing?
I have been playing football for half of my life, and even if I stop I want to be part of it. I want to stay in football as long as I can. I’d like to help young players and maybe help a team.

Q - I know you do a lot of work in the local community. What exactly do you do and why do you think this is important?
Yes I do, but I don't like to get credit for it. I like to help under privileged people. I go to hospitals and shelters just to visit and help where I can. It's very important because you can change someone's life by visiting them, and they are part of our community. Using my status as a footballer helps a lot.

Q - If you could give one piece of advice - from a player's perspective - to the Thai football administrators, what would it be?
They should visit various FAs in Europe and learn more from them. How football should be run and how to improve on what they do. It's sad to see how they handle football matters in Thailand. Football is growing fast, so they have to learn fast too. If they don't, they will hinder the growth of football here.

Q - Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Like I said, football is growing fast here. We need clubs and the FA to educate players more, especially on how to live a professional life. Choosing the right food to eat etc. That is lacking, but you can't blame the players because they just don't know about these things. You can find players before match eating papaya salad. That can't help you in the game, they should be taught that.

Q - Thank you for you time, Noah.
You’re welcome.

Samut Songkhram 1-0 Chonburi - Match Report: 2012

TPL

Samut Songkhram 1-0 Chonburi

Samut Songkhram Municipal Stadium

Attendance: 1,850

Saturday 28th July, 2012

Match report
FARCE!
What an absolute farce this was. The pitch at Samut Songkhram yesterday was a disgrace. And what is even more annoying is that the host club made no attempt at all to make it playable. It was obvious to anyone that the torrential downpour that started at 2:30pm would affect the surface and the groundstaff should have been prepared. However, as the players came out to warm up we had two men, one with a brush and one with a bucket, "working" on a small area inside the centre circle. Why weren't there many more trying to drain the water away in others parts of the pitch that were clearly in a worse state? 

Why wasn't the kick off delayed in order to give them time to do this? What did the referee see when he made his pitch inspection? Did he even make a pitch inspection? Even from my vantage point - which incidentally must be one of the worst in the TPL - I could see that the ground wasn't fit. Still, we kicked off, on time, in a quagmire.

Playing football was virtually impossible, as players fell over and the ball either skidded along the wet grass or stopped dead in one of the many puddles that littered the ground. The referee made no allowances for the conditions and dished out yellow cards for offences that had more to do with the surface than malice from the players.

At half time we expected a small army of people to come on the pitch armed with forks, brushes and buckets, but not a single person ventured forth. Surely the referee must take a lot of the blame here for not insisting that the home officials worked to improve the conditions. Even one of the official photographers said that the game should be abandoned and that it was more like watching water polo.

The second half progressed in much the same way as the first. Lots of splashing about and falling over. Great if you'd paid to watch a circus but not so satisfying for those of us who came to watch a game of football in the Thai PREMIER League. 

Suttinun received our first red card of the season and Sinthaweechai conceded a penalty in injury time to give the home side a win. Tellingly, at the final whistle, our players came over to applaud the away support - which made up about half of the overall attendance - but completely ignored the home fans and the home bench. The first time I've seen this happen.

I went onto the ground after the match and, believe me, it looked even worse than it did from the stands. The water was ankle deep in some places and these areas accounted for a large part of the playing surface. I really hope that we have made an official complaint about the conditions we had to play in and that Samut Songkhram are hit by a big fine for a sub-standard pitch. But I'm not holding my breath.

Interview With A Binh Duong Fan: 2009

I caught up with Binh Duong fan, Tanh Tam, ahead of the AFC Cup quarter final second leg clash on 30th September, 2009. Here's what he had to say:

 

Me - What is your name and where do you come from? 

TT - My name is Thanh Tam and I come from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. 

Me - How long have you been supporting Binh Duong? 

TT - I have been supporting Binh Duong for about 2 months. 

Me - Please can you tell me a bit about your club. 

TT - Just now we are one of the best teams in V-League. Binh Duong were the Vietnamese champions in 2007and 2008. We finished runners up in 2006 and 2009. 

Me - Who are your main rivals? 

TT - The main rivals of Binh Duong in the 2009 season were Da Nang, the eventual V-League champions. Our other rivalries are with Long An, Song Lam Nghe An and T&T Hanoi. 

Me - How many of your fans came to Thailand? 

TT - About 200 fans of Binh Duong went to Thailand to support their team in the first leg. 

Me - What sort of reception will our fans receive from Binh Duong fans? 

TT - On September 30th, The Reds of Binh Duong will welcome The Blues of Chonburi. 

Me - What do you know about Chonburi FC and Thai football? 

TT - I know that Chonburi is one of the strongest teams in the Thai-League. I am a big fan of Chonburi and I hope that they will have a lot of success in the Thai-League. I am also a fan of Zico from the time he played for Thai team. I believe that Chonburi will play well on Wednesday. 

Me - Is there anything else you'd like to add? 

TT - I think Binh Duong v Chonburi will be a wonderful match. 

Me - Thank you for answering my questions. 

TT - Thank you for asking me! Have a good match! 

Siam Sport Select XI: 2011

Five Chonburi players made it into Siam Sport's top eleven Thai players for the 2011 season. The quintet, Sinthaweechai Hathairattanakool, Chonlatit Jantakam, Anuch Kitpongsri, Adul Lahso (pictured) and Pipob On-Mo, all feature in the newspaper's selection of the best local stars to play in that year's TPL.

The full XI

Sinthaweechai Hathairattanakool

Jakrapan Gaewprom (PEA)

Chonlatit Jantakam

Niweat Siriwong (Pattaya Utd)

Anucha Kitpongsri

Rangsan Viwatchaichok (PEA)

Adul Lahso 

Surachart Saripim (Police Utd)

Ekabum Potharungroj (Thai Port)

Pipob On-Mo

Teerasil Daengda (Muang Thong Utd) 

Season Review by Phil Larkin: 2011

Chonburi fan, Phil Larkin, reviews the 2011 season.

Q - What is your name?
A - Phil

Q - Where do you live?
A - Pattaya

Q - How long have you been supporting Chonburi FC?
A - 4 years

Q - How many matches did you manage to get to this year?
A – Not enough! But I'd guess at a dozen

Q - Which was your best match of the season?
A – TOT at home was awesome....some of the best football I have ever seen

Q - Who is your player of the season?
A -  Kenneth Akpuze

Q - Which was your favourite away trip of the season?
A – Pattaya United

Q - Which was the best opposition team you saw this season?
A – Nasaf were very strong but we should have beaten them

Q - Who was the best opposition player you saw this season?
A - No one is fit to lace Therdsak's boots

Q - What was your biggest disappointment of the season?
A – Losing to Nasaf

Q - What was the funniest thing that happened to you this season?
A – Anything to do with fellow fan, Clarence Mansell

Q - What was your favourite individual incident of the season?
A – Seeing two middle aged men walk about dressed as ten year olds!

Q - What did the club get right this season?
A –  The kit. The first ten games of the season saw some phenominal football

Q - What did the club get wrong this season?
A – Crowd violence is never good

Q - How do you rate the team's overall performance this season?
A – 8/10

Q - What are your hopes for 2012?
A – Champions!

FAT Busters: Let's Impose Martial Law On Thai Football by Matt Riley: 2014

FAT Busters: Let's Impose Martial Law On Thai Football

by Matt Riley

21st May, 2014

As we wake up to another depressing turn of the tortuous Thai political wheel under martial law, denials of a coup, ruled by a government without a leader and the Thai economy shrinking by an alarming 2.1% in the first quarter of this year, maybe it's time to stop complaining about the madness and embrace it in Thai football. 

 

For years, the ineptitude at the FAT elicited dark humour and shoulder shrugging, but what if we took a leaf from the book of Thai politics and stormed the football Bastille? Robert Procureur's recent outburst could start the le ballon rolling (and he would be the most qualified for guillotine duties.) There is a reservoir of rejected expertise that wants to develop the Thai game which, tapped into, would flood the dark recesses of our beautiful game with light and pulse with a creative energy that would be highly attractive to globally minded partners.

 

The first stage of the process is to get the biter bit. Tie the FAT up in huge swathes of legal red tape. With every dubious decision, file a complaint directly at its head and lodge the case in Norway. The sixteen thousand kilometre round trip for every minor legal update should cool the heels of the FAT head while we get on with running our game. Instead of the highly divisive two football associations in Indonesia, we should empower the legion of inmates against the wardens  of Thai football's madhouse. 

They currently feel disenfranchised and powerless, knowing that if they showed their heads above the parapet there would be more than a football rolling sadly down the road. When the FAT plant their compliant officials in games, the men in black  are invited into the VIP box to watch the game whilst other impartial and untainted officials lead the line. When fines are collected, we use them to finance grass root initiatives and support the women's game that is now within one game of qualifying for the World Cup in Canada thanks to very little FAT support.

 

 Instead of being seen as the People's Democratic Republic of Football, we should engage in dialogue with the AFC. FIFA are mired in cronyism and infighting as Blatter sharpens his knives for Platini over the Qatar farce, but our local governors are far more rigorous and open minded. They have to be, because they oversee a group of countries fighting for worldwide recognition and too often seen as a backwater and sunny clime for players to retire in. 

By implementing their key initiatives like Actual Playing Time, having strong Thai representation on their Ethics Committee and opening our football finances to root and branch assessment, Thai football can show how much it has to offer the region. If the game here can go from stronger to the J and K Leagues to vastly inferior in one decade, imagine how quickly it could go the other way with professional stewardship? The game here has so much to offer with (generally) well behaved and passionate fans, highly skilled players and rapidly improving stadia.

 

Our income will come from international sponsors. Recently, Citibank were prepared to underwrite a proposed academy league before this idea, orchestrated by former AIA CEO Ron van Oijen, was firmly rejected. Giving young players meaningful competition in a professionally run league was greeted with a mixture of bemusement and fear by the FAT, especially as eight major TPL teams had already signed up to the scheme. Quite rightly Ron, a man who previously managed a company of forty thousand staff, saw the pointlessness of begging for their support and the plan is shelved. There are plenty of other global brands happy to enter the dynamic and lucrative market place of Thai football without needing the strings of political largesse and favour trading. 

The Thai football market is strong enough for major companies to enter it on economic grounds. AIA drastically down scaled their sponsorship not because they failed to increase market share, but partly due to the non competitive practices of politicians using clubs as electioneering vehicles. Business partnerships with foreign clubs also have a great deal of merit. Most agreements are fluffily worded love notes from a star struck Thai club to foreign giants pleading with them to be gentle, but the model of J League team's Yokohama F Marinos shows an open and refreshingly honest approach. The Japanese giants want the following from their partners Suphanburi FC as set out in their Memorandum of Understanding signed last July:

 

"To provide opportunities for each other to meet sponsors of the partner side. To support each other in the commercial exploitation rights (introduction of sponsors in the partner country.)"

 

The War Elephant may be sharing the bed with two other clubs, but everyone, is clear about the situation and gets what they want. For Yokohama it was access to Truevisions via the Thai club President Varwut Silpa - archa. In return they will bring the President of the national Japanese broadcasters NHK over next week for some highly publicised flesh pressing and have tangible results to work on. For SCG Muang Thong United's "strategic partnership" with Athletico Madrid signed four years ago, their bed is extremely crowded with seven other clubs vying for the attention of the Spanish Champions: their meaningful connections would take a highly capable forensic scientist years to locate.

 

So, instead of the reverse alchemy currently transforming potential ASEAN  television gold into sawdust, a small group of brave souls can scale FAT tower, plant a fan flag above the penthouse conference room and dodge the ensuing bullets. Led by our spiritual leader Captain Kirk, his Star Trek Spectre of the Gun episode will be boldly emblazoned on our flag as we scamper back down to safety:

 

"I don't think we're going to have any choice. ... I know the bullets are unreal, therefore they cannot harm me."

Interview With Adam Illing: 2014.

My interview with Buriram Utd fan, Adam Illing, from 24th April, 2014.

 

Q - Please can you introduce yourself

A – I’m Adam Illing. I’m 29 yearsold and I’m a factory worker from Great Cornard, Suffolk, England.

 

Q - What are the reasons for Buriram Utd's relatively poor start to the season?

A - Lack of goals.

 

Q - How do you think these problems need to be addressed?

A – We need to get some pace into the team and if they do this, they should create chances.

 

Q - How have the fans reacted to the team's downturn in fortunes?

A - The Thai supporters do not appear to have the same reactions as people from the UK. In the UK they would let the players know by booing at the games but here it’s different.

 

Q - If results don't improve, what actions do you expect the owner to take?

A - He will sack the coach and sign some more players.

 

Q - Do you think that the early exit from the AFC CL will assist the team in improving their domestic form?

A - The travelling must take its toll but they coped with it last season. I hope it improves or they will not be playing AFC next season.

 

Q - Which Buriram Utd players have impressed you this season?

A - None have played well week in week out this season.

 

Q - And which players have failed to impress?

A - Jay Simpson. A lot was expected from a player who has played at a decent level in England but he has not found scoring as easy as I expected him to.

 

Q - What were your feelings about your previous coach, Alejandro Menendez?

A - He was unable to communicate with the players and was giving instructions to Rochela to pass on to the players.

 

Q - Was it the right decision to sack him?

A - Yes I think so, as the results were not coming and that is what he is paid to do.

 

Q - How do you think his dismissal was handled?

A - If the truth be known, then I think he must have known that it would only be a matter of time. As to how it was done, I am not sure if it could have been handled any other way, as Newin has his ways; some of which I do not agree with, but he is the boss.

 

Q - What are your feelings about Bozidar Bandovic, your new coach?

A - It’s too early to decide if he is the right choice. I Googled him and his points per game ratio at previous clubs is not that impressive.

 

Q - Realistically, what do you think you can achieve this season?

A – It’s early days and the teams who you would expect to be in contention for the title are there with the exception of Buriram. The way we are playing at the moment, I would take a top 4 place. Some of the teams at the top will fade away, due to the size of their squads. We have a good record in the cups so hopefully we can win the FA Cup, which will see us into the AFC.

 

Q - From here on in, what would you consider to be a successful season?

A - A return to form in the league and winning the FA Cup.

 

Q - Which opposing team has impressed you the most this season?

A – Singhtarua. For a team who have just been promoted, they do not let you settle and are in your faces all the time.

 

Q - What are your impressions of the current Chonburi team?

A – I haven’t seen you play this season.

 

Q - What sort of tactics do you think you'll need to employ against Chonburi?

A - 4-4-1-1

 

Q - What sort of match are you expecting on Sunday?

A - That’s a tough question. I would like to say a good one - by that I mean an entertaining game with a few goals, some decent passing and no diving around acting like you have been shot.

 

Q - Would you care to make a score prediction?

A - Buriram United 1-1 Chonburi.

Chula Sinthana 0-0 Chonburi - Match Report: 2008

TPL

Chula Sinthana 0-0 Chonburi

Chulalongkorn University Stadium

Saturday 26th July, 2008

Match Report

The match yesterday was very entertaining. I thought we were the better side in the first half, but Chula had the better of the second period. Zico has got them playing some good stuff. I think that their future is secured in the TPL and I expect them to be one of the challengers next season. Zico for Thailand boss? I would think that it's a real possibility.

Arthit had one of his better games yesterday. But why did he switch sides? He was playing really well down the left in the first half but went over to the right in the second. It was noticeable that he didn't see as much of the ball during this time, but the home side had more possession in the space that he'd left. Puzzling.

Disappointed to have dropped two more points, but we're still up there. Another good turnout from our fans. It's a shame that the TV cameras can't operate from the opposite side of the stadium. They would then be able to show the crowd and not have to focus on three empty stands.

Other Results 

TOT 2-1 Bangkok Bank 

Customs 3-2 Port Authority 

BEC Tero 3-0 Bangkok University 

Nakhon Pathom 1-0 Army 

Bangphra 1-0 Krung Thai Bank 

Osotspa 1-0 Tobacco Monopoly 

PEA 1-0 Samut Songkhram

League Position : 3rd

Steve Darby Previews Chonburi v Muang Thong Utd: 2010

Steve Darby Previews Chonburi v Muang Thong Utd - 25th July, 2010

Thailand assistant coach, Steve Darby, shares his thoughts on the TPL's big match. 

Q - How many times have you managed to watch Chonburi and Muang Thong United this season? 

A- I've watched a total of 45 games so far this season. That includes TPL, Queens Cup, AFC Cup, FA Cup and even a few Vietnam league games, when Thai players were playing. I take notes at all these games and later computerise the records so, if the same names keep coming up, it will be followed up. I also listen to the club coaches and senior players about who they feel are playing well. 

This is how Puritat Jarigarnon of Chonburi was first identified. I was alerted by Therdsak and Sutee Suksomkit recommended Anawin Jujeen at Bangkok Glass. I try to get to as many games as possible, usually 3 a week and have been to every stadium this season. In addition, I make the effort to watch every game highlight on the internet so I get to see every goal scored. This information is all passed on to Bryan Robson, who double checks and makes final decisions about players 

Q - What do you consider Chonburi's strengths to be? 

A- I have to say a great back four and keeper. Plus, Therdsak on his day is still brilliant and Arthit can always punish a team from set pieces. 

Q - And Chonburi's weaknesses? 

A- I would never critisise another coach's team, Coaches have enough critics without fellow professionals joining in. 

Q - Which Chonburi players have impressed you the most? 

A - Peter Reid was convinced that Suree and Natthapong could easily play at Championship level in England. And, having worked at Sheffield Wednesday (League One), I have no doubt about that. I also believe that Suttinun has a great future, as he is such a dedicated player and a great athlete. Also, I wouldn't have wanted to play against Chonlatit! 

Q - What do you consider Muang Thong's strengths to be? 

A - Top class keeper, strong centre backs and a striker in Teerasil Dangda who can score goals from anywhere. 

Q - And their weaknesses? 

A - As before. 

Q - Which Muang Thong players have impressed you the most? 

A - The goalkeeper,Kawin Thammasatchanan, has the physical ability and mental strength to go all the way to the top. I know EPL clubs are tracking him. Teerasil Dangda is a tremendous player. When New Zealand played here, Ryan Nelsen said he caused him more problems than many EPL players. Don't underestimate the work rate of Pitchipong Coeichui and I think Panupong Wongsa at Centre back is getting better week by week. I am also pleased to see Ronnachai Rangsiyo back from his ACL injury, he has great talent. 

Q - Do you think that this year's TPL title is a two horse race? Is this a title decider? 

A - If Muang Thong win, then I think it's the title decider. I cant see PEA catching up, as they are strong defensively but don't score many goals. Although signing Pipat is a great move for them. But when you see Army and Police beating the big two, I still think it will go down to the last few games. Injuries to key players will play a part. 

Q - What has been the biggest club match you've ever been involved in? 

A - The biggest club match was Perak v Kedah. 100,000 at Bukit Jalil stadium for the Malaysia Cup final. What an atmosphere! Also Johor v Sabah in the Malaysian FA Cup final. We were a 2nd division team beating Sabah in front of 30,000 home fans. 

Though in terms of prestige, Home Utd v Al Jaish of Syria in the semi final of the AFC Cup. We had a squad of 16 players (including two great Thais, Sutee and Surachai) and were beaten by a virtual national team. 

Q - How does a Chonburi v Muang Thong game compare to these experiences? 

A - Football is football, you must live in the present. This will be a great game. The match in the pouring rain last season, 5-2 to Muang Thong at Nong Prue, was one of the most exciting games I have seen. Though I know you wont agree!! 

Q - Dare I ask for a score prediction? 

A - I have to say a draw! 

Q - Anything else you'd like to add? 

A - Don't underestimate the quality of the Thai players. They are some of the most technically gifted and professional players I have worked with, and that includes those from England. Players like Surat and Datsakorn were great ambassadors when they played overseas. Ask yourself how many of the foreign players currently playing here would get in the national team? That's a sign that great players are being produced in Thailand.