Chonburi 2-2 Pattaya Utd - Match Report: 2010

TPL

Chonburi 2-2 Pattaya Utd

IPE Stadium

Attendance: 4,062

Wednesday 28th July, 2010

Match Report 

This actually turned out to be a rollicking good match, with four goals and plenty of incident and talking points. Although, I would gladly have sacrificed the entertainment for all three points. Chonburi started brightly and frequently tested the visitor's defence. The fluent passing that has been notably absent in recent weeks returned and numerous chances were created, as the Sharks looked to get back to winning ways. However, in spite of all the pressure, the red and white hooped shirted back line held firm. So, even though they'd enjoyed about 90% of the first half possession, Chonburi trooped off at half time with the game still goalless.

The second period was a bit more even but the opening strike, from Ludovick, came against the run of play. Fortunately, going a goal behind seemed to inspire rather than deflate the home team and we surged forward in search of an equaliser. We didn't have to wait too long, but Jetsadakorn's effort was still greeted with a sense of relief rather than joy. On the other hand, our second sparked scenes of wild delight. Dave Simpson, making his full debut, cracked the ball home with some ferocity and then disappeared under a mountain of bodies. It was a great goal and capped what had been a marvellous performance by the Canadian. This boy can shift and he's got the skill and strength to match. If he can build on what we saw last night, he's going to cause a lot of problems for teams in this league.

Unfortunately, it wasn't to be the winner, as our opponents levelled right on the stroke of full time, with our defence all standing looking at each other, possibly thinking about what they were going to have for their tea. It was a disappointing end to what, in all honesty, had been a good display. And one which should instill a bit more confidence into a team that has lately looked a shadow of its early season self. Whether or not we can close the five point gap on the leaders remains to be seen but at least we've shown that we do have the bottle for a scrap. Upwards and onwards.