A quick look at some of the myths surrounding BG Pathum Utd
Say "Bangkok Glass" and most people will think of green and white. The colours are synonymous with the club and, in many ways, define it. Sure, they've experimented with shirts styles - stripes, halves, full body, green body/white sleeves etc (but strangely not hoops?) - but the predominant colours have always been green and white. So why the change to blue? Well, it appears that it was done on the advice of a fortune teller, in an attempt to change the fortunes of the club. It had an instant affect - they were relegated. However, it now seems justified, as the Glass Rabbits have just won their first TPL title. However, we all still think of them in green and white...don't we?
Their Three Sided Stadium Needs A Fourth Stand
For many away fans, a trip to the Leo is considered one of the highlights of the league season. The purpose built, modern ground is undoubtedly one of the best in Thailand and you are always guaranteed a good day out. However, it only has stands on three sides - the fourth side is a large wall that separates the stadium from the field next door - and, for some, this detracts from its overall impressiveness. Or does it? I'm not so sure. Of course it would look much better if it gave the appearance of being completed, and less like a glorified driving range, but I like it in its current quirky state. Let's just enjoy what we have rather than complain about what is "missing".
Their Badge Is Awful
Thai clubs do seem to favout cartoonish badges over what I'd call the traditional style - look no further than Chonburi for proof. Our current squeeze of toothpaste "logo" isn't a patch on the original, classier Shark design. But, I digress. We're here to talk about BG's rabbit design. And what a shocker it is. It also looks quite rude. Maybe that's the intention? A cheeky little joke hidden in plain. However, as a traditionalist, I'd prefer something more...er...traditional. Surely it can't be that difficult?
The Rabbit Girls Are Great
"Pretties" are a staple of any large - and sometimes not so large - event in Thailand. A gaggle of attractive young ladies all dressed in figure hugging costumes with the company logo scrawled across them, is good for business. And in BG's case, it is good for football. Or is it? Well many think the sight of the girls standing at the front of the stand or on the pitch is pretty (pun intended) harmless and just a bit of fun. There are those, however, who believe it is outdated and chauvinistic, and has no place in a 21st century soccer stadium. It's up to you to decide which camp you belong in.
This accusation seems to come mainly from those who live in central Bangkok and rely on public transport. Fans of most other clubs don't appear to have the same problems. Indeed, the drive up from Chonburi is a doddle and I've always found the Leo one of the easiest away grounds to get to. The only real problems come on the approach to the ground, when the volume of traffic increases (Dreamworld and the National Science Museum are nearby) and you have to make that tricky U-turn. Otherwise, it's a breeze. Parking is easy too. Now that's something you can say about all Thai league grounds.
Their Fans Aren't Very Friendly
I've heard this accusation levelled at BG fans from quite a few people over the years so I guess there must be some truth in it. As a visiting fan, you certainly don't get the kind of welcome that has come to be expected whenever you venture upcountry or even at other grounds in and around the capital. However, I personally have never really noticed anything off about the Pathum Thani locals. Just because they're not throwing themselves at you asking for selfies or offering to share food and beer, doesn't mean they're not pleased to see you. And surely aloof indifference (perceived or otherwise) is better than open hostility. Isn't it?
Their Old Name Is Better
Clubs changing names is a strange one - on par with changing kit colours (see above) - and not something I approve of (also, see above). The argument here, of course, is that they've added the name of their location to strengthen links with the community. In doing so they have also (almost) dropped the company monicker - and identity? - by which they've been known for so long. I guess in time the "BG" will disappear too and we'll be left with Pathum Utd - because this league really needs another Utd! However, many fans of other clubs still seem to refer to them as "Glass" or "Bangkok Glass" and seem to prefer it.
There Is An Excellent Selection Of Food And Drink For Sale At Their Ground
By all accounts, the Rabbit Cafe is great. Sadly, I've never been in, but I can vouch for the quality of food and drink stalls that line the approach to the stadium. There is a reasonable choice and service is usually quick and efficient. It's all fairly cheap too. One complaint I have heard is that there's not much variety. Personally, I'm happy with wha's on offer. Anyway, if the fayre is not for you, there are plenty of shops within a mere cockstride of the ground and, there's always the Rabbit Cafe. Let me know if you try it.
With thanks to Russ, Jamie, Sven, Phil, Alec & Grant
No comments:
Post a Comment