Thai Port fan, Jim Clarke, gives us the lowdown on Saturday's opponents, Khon Kaen Utd.
What are Khon Kaen Utd's strengths?
The main thing they had going for them was a good team spirit. They went two nil down early and many teams, away from home against well fancied opposition, would have folded and been soundly beaten. The fact that everyone for Khon Kaen Utd kept trying and they had a spells late in the first half, and at various points in the second half, when they were looking the more likely to score, bodes well for them long term. Maybe Port eased off, maybe KKU didn’t start well, but they certainly finished it. After 20 minutes I thought they could be the team that gets cut a drift at the bottom this season. But by full time, l’d become a believer in their chances of staying up.
And their weaknesses?
There wasn’t really anyone who looked particular special. At the end of the game there wasn’t a single player l thought “he could do a job for Port”, even sitting on the bench. The defence early on looked particularly weak, but they brought a bit more stability to it by dropping Cobo back to centre back. However, then they lost his influence in midfield.
Which of their players impressed you and why?
Their Brazilians look like a pair of very solid players. Cobo was great and Melo was unlucky not get on the score sheet. He's a solid goalscorer at this level and it was purely variance that he didn’t end up finding the net. If he keeps getting into the positions he did, and the service the team laid on is sustained, he’ll get goals.
How do you think they will fare this season?
Its not going to be easy but currently they’re seemingly battling for the whole 90 minutes each week. If they can keep that team spirit going all season, and supply Melo enough chances, they’ll have a puncher's chance. As ever, the first half the season is just about staying in contention. The manager seems to have the team as well organised as he can and if they pick up a few smart signings in the second window there’s no reason they can’t stay up.
What are your expectations for our match against them?
I’ve watched the highlights of their first three games. It seems they like to play on the break and sit back absorbing pressure. If you get the early goal then things could end up looking quite easy. If not, it is going to get more frustrating and they’ll look to nick one. That said, they’re yet to keep a clean sheet and I’m not sure that’ll change when faced with Murillo. I think you’ll get the win.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Look out for their away kit! If they wear the same one as at The PAT, it's...erm... an interesting look! Combining a pink shirt with some burgundy shorts. Individually, both items look reasonable, but together its not a great look.
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