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.
No comments:
Post a Comment