Showing posts with label 2022. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2022. Show all posts
Tuesday, 25 April 2023
Sunday, 26 March 2023
Sunday, 15 January 2023
New! First Leg Reviews - 14. Chonburi FC (Kevin Aamlid): 2022
Here are the opinions of Chonburi fan, Kevin Aamlid, as he looks back over the first leg and ahead to the rest of the season.
Winning 5-1 against Muang Thong United was great. Even better due to the fact that I was there at the match.
Q - And the low point?
The Worawut incident was definitely the worst thing to happen in the club's history. There is clearly a toxic drinking culture at the club and it needs to go. Surely I don’t pay to watch a bunch of alcoholics kick a ball.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
In Thai league standards, probably Buriram.
Q – And the worst?
Against Chonburi, the worst team was probably Muang Thong. However, overall, it’s fair to say Lampang are pretty poor. They have great fans though.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
Considering the fact that we are currently 2nd, I’d like to win the league. Or at least finish in a spot where we can qualify for the champions league.
b) the league in general?
I hope they start to tackle time wasting. I really can’t stand it when players pretend they are hurt. It’s just pathetic.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
Probably in poor taste but:
“He drinks a whiskey drink, he drinks a vodka drink,
He drinks a lager drink, he drinks a cider drink”
(Tubthumping, Chumbawamba)
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
I hope we do better in the second half of the season than the first. I would love to have something to celebrate at the end of the season.
Friday, 6 January 2023
New! First Leg Reviews - 13. Chonburi FC (Dale Farrington): 2022
Here's my summing up of Chonburi's terrific first leg and hopes for the rest of the season.
Q - Overall, how satisfied are you with your team's performance over the first half of the season?
Very satisfied. This is our best squad for a number of years and - apart from one or two wobbles - they have performed well. I'm really looking forward to the second leg and hope we can build on the solid foundations laid in the last few months.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
The 5-1 win at Muang Thong Utd was extremely pleasing. We've had a torrid time there over the years so this victory came as a lovely surprise. I'm only disappointed that I wasn't there to witness it and revel in the occasion.
Q - And the low point?
Obviously not taking into account the tragic off field events, losing in both cup ties at Nakhon Pathom Utd. In spite of our lofty league position, the two domestic knockout competitions still represent our best oportunity of winning a trophy. Also, the first fifteen minutes against Buriram Utd. We were three down and paying them far too much respect. I felt they were there for the taking that day. Our fightback proved that, but just fell short.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you have seen so far this season?
I'd have to say Buriram Utd. For fifteen minutes, at least.
Q – And the worst?
Us and Port. It wasn't the fault of the two teams, but the conditions under which the match was played were ridiculous. The Thai League management really needs to get to grips with these types of games and have clear guidelines as when to call them off. It was farcical and makes it hard to take the league seriously.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
To pick up where we left off in November. There is absolutely no reason why we can't push on from here. I'm under no illusions that catching Buriram Utd will be a very tough task, but I'd love to see us having a go, playing entertaining football in the process.
b) the league in general?
I hope they can sort out the TV deal. The current one doesn't really seem to benefit anyone (although I'm sure someone is delighted with it...). The league needs promoting properly and showcasing games on television is a big way to do this.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
'Enjoy Yourself" by The Specials. I'm really getting a buzz from our performances this year and am determined to enjoy every minute of it (see below). After many lean years, this has been the most exciting season since 2014. The recent, untimely, death of Terry Hall also makes this a poignant choice. RIP, Terry.
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Treasure the times you spend watching Thai football with your family and friends. The domestic game can be hard to love at times - and we've all had periods when we've been disillusioned - but, for all its faults, there really is nothing like it. The positives far outweigh the negatives.
Thursday, 5 January 2023
New! First Leg Reviews - 12. Nakhon Ratchasima (Charlie Clough): 2022
Nakhon Ratchasima central defender, Charlie Clough shares his views on the team's performance over the first half of the season and looks forward to the second leg.
Q - Overall, how satisfied are you with your team's performance over the first half of the season?
Slightly disappointed in how we performed during the first leg. Whole new squad of players except 3/4 so that could be a factor, but I thought we started the season well. Compared to last season we lack that little bit of experience and ‘know how’ to get results.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
Highlight of the season I would say is beating Chonburi at home. We were going on a winless streak and to get that just before the end of the first leg was massive!
Q - And the low point?
Low point has got to be playing away to Lampang on the worst pitch I have ever seen. It was completely flooded and the referee continued the game. Up there with one of the least enjoyable games I have played in.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for your club?
I’d say for us as a club to become more consistent in our results. We need to collect as many points as we can early in the second leg so we are away from the drop zone towards the end of the season.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
Yazz - 'The Only Way is Up'
Wednesday, 4 January 2023
New! First Leg Reviews - 11. Chiang Rai Utd (Alec Peeples): 2022
Today it's the turn of Chiang Rai Utd fan, Alec Peeples to pass his verdict on his team's first leg performance and look forward to the rest of the campaign.
Q - Overall, how satisfied are you with your team's performance over the first half of the season?
Hard to complain too much about sitting 6th in the table, I guess. Things could always be worse. That said we played terrible football and got handled very easily by all the other 'big' teams. Not many positives to take other than the performances from Victor and Diego. Two great defenders that I'm very pleased to have with us this season.
Not sure I have one. We've generally just been uninspiring, played boring football, and haven't produced any really memorable perforamance or results.
Q - And the low point?
Probably the last month of the leg. Losing 4-1 to Buriram. Then losing in the cup to Ayutthaya. Then losing 3-1 to BG. Just a pretty bad run of results. I was glad for the break.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
Buriram of course. Terrific football and their position in the table shows how much better they've been than everyone else.
Q – And the worst?
Khon Kaen Utd. Bad football. Poor attitudes. Not a fan!
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
I hope Bonilla is the solution to the striker issue we've had since the decline of Bill. We have been toothless in attack for a long, long time.
b) the league in general?
My biggest complaint about the league at the moment is its broadcast. I have watched barely any Thai football this season outside of the CRUTD matches I've attended. AIS is horrible and I'd rather not deal with shoddy streams pumped full of gambling ads. Obviously that won't get addressed in 1/2 a season but it's hard to come up with any other suggestions when I can't even see the product.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
'Road to Nowhere'
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Nope!
Sunday, 1 January 2023
New! First Leg Reviews - 10. BG Pathum Utd (Khun Obb): 2022
Q - Overall, how satisfied are you with your team's performance over the first half of the season?
Seeing how we ended last season with head coach Teguramori, I’d have to say I am disappointed with BG Pathum United’s performance thus far. Many people, myself included, expected us to be in a two-horse race with Buriram United for all domestic titles - that did not happen and we’re 15 points behind the leaders, which is just sad.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
Being at the Saitama Stadium 2002, seeing BG Pathum United take on Urawa Reds in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals is definitely the highlight of my first leg. But if we’re counting only domestic competitions, it would have to be beating Buriram United in the Thailand Champions Cup at the beginning of the season. Everyone at the club was so optimistic after that win.
Q - And the low point?
Losing to Ratchaburi FC away. We were completely outplayed throughout the entire game. We barely had a shot on target. Everything that could have gone wrong - went wrong. The mood on the bus home, and around the club that entire week was simply toxic. Just recalling that memory makes me depressed.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
Hands down Chonburi FC. I love the energy and the fighting spirit of this squad. I watched Chonburi FC live twice this season; the first was the opening day win over BG Pathum United, and the second game was the 5-1 win over Muangthong United. What a performance!
Q – And the worst?
Chiangrai United when they came to BG Pathum United in the final fixture of the first leg. They didn’t show anything special apart from one good pass that they scored from and in the end, we beat them 3-1.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
Reach the finals of the two domestic cup competitions. Winning the FA Cup would be nice.
b) the league in general?
I want to see a good race for the top-half clubs to get into the second and third-place spots.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
I hope this old train breaks down
Then I could take a walk around
And, see what there is to see
And time is just a melody
From the song “Breakdown” by Jack Johnson. This is my second year working full-me for BG Pathum United and another year where things go by so fast. Being a fan of the club, I’m not sure I can process the emotional rollercoaster I’ve just sat through (and there’s still halfway to go!). A little breather just to enjoy the moment would be nice.
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Thank you for sending out these questions, I really enjoy what fans of other clubs have to say. See you at the final game of the season at BG Stadium?
New! First Leg Reviews - 9. Chonburi FC (Tim Spear): 2022
Here are the thoughts of Chonburi fan, Tim Spear, as he looks back over the first leg and ahead to the rest of the season.
Q - And the low point?
Low point, obviously the drinking culture of the club, and how this was handled internally. Unfortunately, the people in the club who were heavily involved still hold a lot of sway and are still around. This culture should clearly be eradicated. It has no place in the modern game, but it caused deaths, which should be unforgivable.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
Haven't seen many away games, but Bangkok United were the best organised team to visit Chonburi Stadium.
Q – And the worst?
Lampang were very weak.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
We have done well so far, apart from the cups, which means the rest of the season will be a bit flat. To be honest, I just want to see us play well. And with Dennis back, plus Alves and Channarong, we could be in for some exciting games.
b) the league in general?
I have no real interest in the league. Buriram Utd will be champions.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
Song? OMG! "With a little bit of this and a little bit of that" springs to mind. I never thought for one second I would recall the 'Birdie Song'!
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
I'm looking forward to the end of the season, when we will see you back here. (Aw. Thank you -ed)
Friday, 30 December 2022
New! First Leg Reviews - 8. Bangkok Utd (Svein Falk Lorentzen): 2022
Next up in our series is Bangkok Utd fan, Svein Lorentzen. Here he sums up his club's first leg performance and looks forward to the rest of the season.
We started the season good, with 6-2-0 from the first 8 games. It looked very promising then, but I knew more difficult games were still to come. And they were more difficult. We dropped points both here and there, and from the last 7 games we only got 8 points, 2-2-3. Because of that we are already out of the title race. So, to answer your question, I`m not satisfied at all. I`m actually very disappointed! I wasn`t too optimistic before the season, due to disappointments from previous seasons, but I really didn`t think we would be out of the title race in November.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
Without a doubt the win against BG Pathum United.
Q - And the low point?
It`s been so many. First that we failed to beat Sukhothai. It was 2 points dropped. Same when we went to Port. Should have won easily, but we couldn`t score on our chances.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
I don`t watch games in T1 except for Bangkok United, but Chonburi was good when we beat them. They deserved better from that game.
Q – And the worst?
Khon Kaen United was poor when we played them.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
None! At least not in the league. We have nothing to play for there. We will focus on the cups, according to the club, which is good. Hopefully we can win one of them, but I`m not putting any money on it. We have released players, and won`t replace them, and we are currently without a head coach since he resigned earlier this week.
b) the league in general?
Again, none! But I would like to see Nongbua, Lampang and Lamphun relegated.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
Manchester United used Monty Python 30+ years ago, so I will use it too:
Some things in life are bad
They can really make you mad
Other things just make you swear and curse
When you're chewing on life's gristle
Don't grumble, give a whistle
And this'll help things turn out for the best
And
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the light side of life
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Happy New Year to everyone following Thai football
Thursday, 29 December 2022
New! First Leg Reviews - 7. Lamphun Warrior (Ben Davies): 2022
Lamphun Warrior fan, Ben Davies, shares his opinions on the first half of the season and looks ahead to the second leg.
The first 10 games were a tough watch and a baptism of fire. At times it looked like we were never going to score a goal let alone win a game! In contrast the last 5 games have been very positive and we haven't lost any and won 4. The new Brazilian manager has obviously had an instant impact.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
The highlight for me was the away win against Lampang,our local rivals. Not the best performance but the team finally showed some grit and determination to win 2-1 with a last gasp winner. It was a great full away end too!
Q - And the low point?
The lowest I felt this season was a 5-0 thumping at home to Muangthong. It was the beginning of the end of the ex manager. The feeling around the stadium was grim and the players were getting pelters.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
Muangthong and Chonburi . Chonburi looked very slick on the ball and we couldn't get it off them for long periods. Muangthong were clinical in front of goal.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
Our hopes are simple. To stay up. That would be a great achievement . I also hope some of our players start putting in better performances as they are on decent money.
b) the league in general?
I just hope the Thai leagues continue to grow and that attendances pick up a bit more. Lamphun at 700year in Chiang Mai has been a bit of a ball ache for some. It is also too big. Cant wait to get back to our old rundown shack!
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
Song - "You Can't Always Get What You Want" - Rolling Stones.
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Just like to say whatever the results are we always go along to the games for a laugh , a drink and to see friends. It's all about the day out. Keep supporting your local Thai teams!
New! First Leg Reviews - 6. Muang Thong Utd (Grant Aitken): 2022
Here's Muang Thong Utd fan, Grant Aitken, with his views on his team's first leg performance.
Given that we were top 4 last year, I’m disappointed with the fact that we’ve seemingly gone backward. 3 league wins from 15 matches simply aren’t good enough.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
Slim pickings, so I’d have to opt for Mario’s “Last Dance”. He got the response he needed from the players with an emphatic 5-0 win over Prachuap. There was palpable relief, and it was nice that the fans and head coach could share the moment in unison. Since then we’ve lost once in 6 matches, although 3 of those were draws, which indicates we’re still not hitting our potential.
Q - And the low point?
The 5-1 home defeat against a certain seaside club stung a little.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
I’ve not really watched other teams, if I’ve little vested interest in the outcome then I struggle to engage. It’s a little bit different when your team is in a title race, for example. I’d rather watch Muangthong’s youth teams or one of the T2/T3 sides that have a few of our lads on loan. With that being said, the best teams I’ve seen would be the sides that we came up short against. Ratchaburi, Tero, and Chiang Rai were all worthy victors in matches that I’d hoped to get something out of, but Chonburi were the cream of the crop as they put us to the sword on our own turf.
Q – And the worst?
Lamphun Warriors were pretty dreadful, aside from the aforementioned Prachaup game. I back Gama to turn around the Northerners’ fortunes, however. Dusit is a pretty limited coach, in my opinion, I think they’ll still struggle despite the big-name recruits.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
I’d hope to see us string a couple of wins together and climb into the safety of the mid-table region. We’ve made some positive signings so I don’t see why that wouldn’t be a realistic target. Then, it is a matter of focusing on the cups and preparing for the next season. I’d be quite happy if we had nothing to play for with several fixtures remaining so we can prioritise giving game time to some of the young guns like Ronan Pluijmen, Kakana Khamyok, Purachet Thodsanit and Khanaphod Kadee. The previous 2 U18 Youth League winning sides haven’t quite delivered to expectations, so I’d like to see us build with the next players in line instead. Our U18s were magnificent in the ‘Channel 7 Championship’ and probably deserved to add to our victory in 2016. We need to clear a path for some of those boys to come through as well.
b) the league in general?
I hope the fans find a way to stay invested, but this season seems to be a write-off already. Hopefully, they can rebuild and rebrand for next year, although given the repeated mishandling from those in charge, I’m doubtful. I didn’t think TRUE did an amazing job with the TV coverage but at least it was reliable and accessible, with TRUE4U showing a couple of matches free each week. That was a deal brokered before the current president of the FA had begun his reign, however.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
How about “It’s Now or Never” by Elvis Presley.
I feel like the board has played its part during the transfer window with some shred moves recruiting proven talent, and not to mention opening the door for Rajevac to lend his expertise. That leaves little in the way of excuses for Mario now that he has some extra firepower and support. We must do better and have a good run in the cups to redeem the season and set the foundations for next year’s campaign.
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
The FA needs to have a good, long hard think before the elections for the next FA President next year. I’m not sure they can survive another extended tenure summarised by ineffectiveness and mistrust. Gathering a group of heavy hitters from T1 clubs will only heighten grievances from rival clubs and fans, whether they be real or imagined. We need transparency, organisation, passion and most of all independence from football club owners and any agendas they may be concealing. If they don’t entice candidates deemed desirable to fans, then I see no way back for the league but an unavoidable and irreversible decline in all areas of our domestic game.
New! First Leg Reviews - 5. Samut Prakan City (Phil Williams): 2022
Samut Prakan City fan, Phil Williams, shares his views on his team's first leg performance and looks forward to the rest of the season.
Q - Overall, how satisfied are you with your team's performance over the first half of the season?
I'm reasonably happy with our lower mid-table showing. We've played some lovely football at home and probably deserved more out of the games. In contrast, our away performances haven't been good enough. However, we can't overlook the reality. With all that went on at the club at the start of the season (the Chonburi takeover, the mass exodus of players from the previous season, etc) I should just be grateful to still have a team to support.
A tale of two shirts. Samut Prakan striker Petru Lueca giving me his match shirt after scoring our only goal away at Buriram in the FA Cup. Then my favourite player in T2, Trat FC captain Pornpreecha Jarunai, making a beeline to the away end to give me his shirt after his side's 1-0 victory against us in November. These gestures mean so much to a football fan and make Thai football extra special.
Q - And the low point?
Seeing defender Sarayut Somphim, probably the best player in the squad, unable to play for the team due to contractural issues. He's one of the nicest guys in Thai football and has become good friends with me and my wife over recent months as we've offered him support. We're both overjoyed that he has finally managed to escape his 'contract prison' and kickstart his career at Nakhonsi United. Can I add another low point? - the league cup exit at third division Bangkok FC after being 2-0 up in ten minutes.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
No one really. I think most of the 18 teams in T2 are a much of a muchness. I was probably most impressed by Ayutthaya United, who beat us 2-1 at their place in early November. At that time they were league leaders but have since slipped to 4th.
Q – And the worst?
Probably Ranong FC, who look like they're strong relegation candidates. We still only came away with a 1-1 draw though as Ranong dragged us down to their level and we played just as poorly.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
A top six finish to add a bit of play off drama to the end of the season. As a travelling fan, I think I'd enjoy that. Secondly, to bring in some better quality foreign players (please can we have a goalscorer!) and finally to see a few of those missing thousands of supporters find their way back to the Samut Prakan Stadium.
b) the league in general?
I just hate to see clubs fold because I always think of how heartbreaking it must be for their hardcore supporters. So may all the teams survive even if the situation looks hopeless.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
LOL. It has to be 'Favourite Shirts' by Haircut 100 (see answer to first question)
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
I've been shocked, stunned and horrified at times by the poor quality of the football in T2. I had a feeling the gulf between T1 and T2 might be wide but I just didn't realise how wide. How could any of those teams survive in the premier without spendng millions that they haven't got?
New! First Leg Reviews - 4. Sukhothai (Bill Greaves): 2022
The fourth interview in our series. Sukhothai fan, Bill Greaves, sums up his club's first leg performance and looks forward to the rest of the season.
Q - Overall, how satisfied are you with your team’s performance over the first half of the season?
Winston Churchill said it best when he described the Sukhothai football team as a riddle, wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma. Unprepared for the season, we were first crushed, 3 – 0 by Prachuap at home. Then we gaily marched on to Buriram where we were lucky to escape only 6 – 1 down. The highlight of that trip was getting my picture taken with the Euro Custard Cake girls.
A home draw with Konkaen Utd was followed by a 2 – 0 loss at Muangtong. At a point in the season when we were 11 – 1 down on goals scored, you may think that finding something positive to say might be a bit of a challenge. Not so. The Firebat Hardcore group of supporters, based in Bangkok, sang and cheered as the goals went in and the rain came down and down and down. The pitch was transformed into a mud puddle into a swamp and still we sang. That was the best atmosphere I have been in since I saw Aberdeen beat Real Madrid in the final of the European Cup Winners Cup many moons ago.
The next home game saw Bangkok United arrive at Talay Luang. They were 11 – 0 up on goals, we were 1 – 11 down. Not looking good. After 90 heroic minutes of football we drew 0 – 0 and could justifiably go home moaning that ‘we wuz robbed’. We should have won. On to Lampang where we finally won a game. Ecstatic for a victory? Not as ecstatic as I was for clambering up to a front row seat. An effort that won me a well-deserved roar of applause. I like Lampang but they do have the worst seating for away supporters on Planet Earth.
A draw in Chiang Rai and a home win over Ratchaburi and another draw in Nakhon Rachasima and we had transformed from being relegation challenged into a respectable mid table team. Then came Port and a 1 – 3 home defeat and we were again nervously peering at the teams behind us. Away to Chonburi, a courageous 1 – 1 draw and a home win over Police Tero. We were again a respectable mid-table team.
Off we set for Bangkok Glass. Sukhothai city can be described as many things but being on the cutting edge of modern technology is not one of them. Arriving at a stadium where money is verboten can only be described as chaotic confusion. Cameras, codes, passwords and patient stadium staff were all necessities in buying tickets, beer and snacks. Was it all worth it? A 1 – 0 win and ecstasy was overwhelmed by rapturous delirium. It was mad! Who would dare to challenge us in Asia next year? A mid-table team looking eagerly at the acme of Thai success.
Home to face last placed Nong Bua who got a draw and on to Lamphun who, thanks to Nong Bua’s efforts, were now last placed and they beat us 3 – 1.
We started terribly, improved, began thinking grandiose thoughts and then returned to the mud. A team that has achieved a 9th position in the league by scoring 10 goals in 15 games (and letting in 20). A riddle, wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma barely begins to describe the Sukhothai Firebats.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
Winning 1-0 at Bangkok Glass.
Q - And the low point?
Losing 3-1 against Lamphun.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
Port
Q – And the worst?
Nong Bua
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
Sukhothai have re-signed John Baggio which has created a lot of renewed interest in the club. A Nong Bua attacking midfielder and a Filipino striker make up the new Firebat squad. I hope that they will help us to score more than 1 goal in a game; a challenge that we were unable to meet in the first half of the season.
b) the league in general?
As a supporter I feel that it is my duty to complain about the referees. However, having said that, I feel that Thai referees, in general, do a pretty good job. I would like to see attendance at all games increase and it should, because the television coverage is awful. I like Bangkok United but cheer against them strictly because they are sponsored by True. I do not understand AIS. A phone company that wants to televise football? I can’t complain because you are replacing the horrible True but you need work.
I am not sure about VAR. I am old-school and football is a game between 2 teams of 11 men with another 3 men controlling it. All 25 of them are liable to make mistakes and that is all part of the game. A referee who insists on stopping the game to catch up on his favourite Thai series is no friend of mine.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
A Whiter Shade of Pale.
Pale is the colour of a body that is not healthy. White is the skin colour that all Thai ladies aspire to. The Sukhothai Firebats have been pretty sickly at times but they have also glowed like a Euro Custard Cake lady.
New! First Leg Reviews - 3. Buriram Utd (Jamie Pinder): 2022
Continuing our series, Buriram Utd fan, Jamie Pinder, sums up his club's first leg performance and looks forward to the rest of the season.
Being unbeaten at the half way point, without doubt. I think most fans are very excited about the second half of the season. I must add that, personally, I’m very pleased that the Prince of Buriram is playing the best football of his life. He’s so good, he’s even back in my good books!
Q - And the low point?
That’s a difficult one. Just for the sake of it, I’d say not beating the Council Estate Boys at home.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
BG by far. They controlled the game at our place and were very comfortable passing the ball around.
Q – And the worst?
Maybe that had an off day, but Sukhothai were poor when they came to Buriram.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
To remain unbeaten and to be entertaining every game
b) the league in general?
Please, Mr Thai League, find a way to get more bums on seats. Maybe if Thailand win the AFF Cup, fans will come back. But, work needs doing to make Thai football worth watching, in person.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
This question has been tormenting me. I could go for “We are the Champions” but that’s a little presumptive, don’t you think.
How about:
Nobody does it better
Though sometimes I wish someone could
Nobody does it quite the way you do
Why'd you have to be so good?
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Due to work I’ve missed too many away games. Hope to rectify that in 2023 and hope to welcome everyone up to the Thunder Castle sometime soon. Best wises to everyone for a wonderful 2023
Wednesday, 28 December 2022
New! First Leg Reviews - 2. Ratchaburi (Neal Oliver): 2022
Ratchaburi fan, Neal Oliver, sums up his club's first leg performance and looks forward to the rest of the season.
A. Ratchaburi Football Club have well surpassed my greatest expectations so far this season and have been superb in defence. We have the best shot stopper in Thailand, and our defenders are amazing. 8 clean sheets, and only one team has managed more than one goal past us all season, and even that only happened in extra time.
I always knew Rafael Da Cunha Jansen was the best defender in Thailand, but when he teamed up with Park Jun-heong, the partnership became virtually unbeatable. Add the speed of Hein Phyo Win and the level headedness of Jirawat Thongsaengphrao, our defence is complete. Amazingly, we have such strength in defence, the likes of Pawee Tanthatemee, who would command a place in most T1 teams is currently a bench warmer.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
A – Thrashing Prachuap 5 – 1 at the Sam Ao Stadium. The Hua Hin Dragons were formed from devoted Hua Hin City Fans. What Prachuap did to Hua Hin City in 2014 will always remain deep in our hearts. It was such a pleasing result.
Q - And the low point?
A – Losing to Sukhothai. I’d watched Sukhothai play several times early in the season, and at that point, in my mind it was just a matter of which other 2 teams would be relegated with them. To lose to Sukhothai was simply unthinkable. I was stunned for a couple of days.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you've seen so far this season?
I had my first visit to the Chang Arena this season, and I was so impressed by our hosts. It was a fantastic experience. The home support was like nothing I had seen before. The way the home fans were singing, and especially dancing throughout the match was amazing, and Buriram Utd were playing great football to match. They were very good. The cynic inside me says it was no accident when they reduced our defensive duo by 50% when Park Jun-heong was stepped upon early in the first half, but such is the strength of our defence, we simply brought Pawee Tanthatemee on to replace him. That aside, Buriram were easily the best overall footballing unit I’ve seen in T1 this season. Their top position is deserved.
Q – And the worst?
I’m answering this based on what I’ve seen versus Ratchaburi i.e. I’ve already mentioned my early thoughts on Sukhothai. I don’t think any team has played badly against us. Even the 5-1 victory at Sam Ao Stadium flattered us. The team I will single out though is Muangthong. When they played us, they were nowhere near as good as they used to be.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
A – I’ve said it before, I am probably Ratchaburi’s biggest pessimist. The thing we have lacked all season is a really good forward player to support Vanderley Dias Marinho. 27 goals in leg 1 (5 against Prachuap and 4 against a non-league side) speaks for itself. The only guy, who was anything like the support player we need was Alvin Fortes. He has been offloaded to Nongbua on loan. However, we’ve recruited a few players, so hopefully we have a decent replacement amongst them, who will give the support we need. However, I’m always dubious when sides change critical players mid-term.
b) the league in general?
A – Hopefully, Ratchaburi should be pretty safe, but I’ve been following some of the signings by the struggling clubs, and I’ve been very impressed. LOL – it seems every other signing I see has been from BG. I think BG will start Leg 2 with just the groundsman. I think we will see some interesting Leg 2 battles between the bottom 8 teams. Any one of them could go.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
A – For a non-musical type, this has to be the hardest question you have ever asked me, Dale. I hope this is OK:
I want to be on top
Forever on the up and damn the competition
I never play it fair
I never turn a hair, just like the politicians
I wrap my conscience up
I want to win that cup and get my money, baby
But back in the dressing room
The other side is weeping
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
A – We have a proper coach this season, and Coach Xavi is making a huge difference. He has the team working very well as a footballing unit. He has a regular starting line-up, and has been able to field a consistent side each week. I hope the mid-term changes have all had his blessing. If they have, brilliant. This is probably the best continuity I’ve felt at Ratchaburi in the last 5 years.
Tuesday, 27 December 2022
NEW! First Leg Reviews - 1. Port (Marco): 2022
Port fan, Marco, sums up his club's first leg performance and looks forward to the rest of the season.
Not very satisfied - although I was kind of expecting another mediocre season. We really should be doing better though.
Q - What has been the highlight of your season so far?
My highlight of the season was winning away at Sukhothai. Nothing out of the ordinary on the face of it but it is our only away win in last 392 days.
Q - And the low point?
My low point was the away defeat to Samut Songkhram in the League Cup. A hardy bunch of us went there for a 3pm Wednesday kick-off only to see Port dumped out by a T3 side. With no chance of winning the league, both cup competitions should have been prioritized.
Q - Apart from your own, which is the best team you have seen so far this season?
The best T1 team I have seen live this season is Buriram United. They weren't at their best against us but they were clinical and had a bit of extra class.
Q – And the worst?
The worst T1 team I have seen live this season is Nakhon Ratchasima. They were dreadful at PAT Stadium. They looked like they had come for a draw but even after falling behind they showed no ambition whatsoever.
Q - What are your hopes for the rest of the season for
a) your club?
I am hoping we can go far in the FA Cup. It's our only remaining hope of silverware. In the league we need to find a way to win some games - way too many draws so far. Away form needs to improve massively too.
b) the league in general?
I think it will be a fairly dull second-leg in general. Barring an aberration, Buriram have the title sewn-up, so the relegation scrap might provide the only source of intrigue. A lot of teams in mid-table will be going through the motions.
Q - Please sum up your season so far with song lyrics or by song title
I'll dedicate my choice to our top scorer Hamilton Soares for his 9 goals during the first-leg; 'Big Man Up Front' by Half Man Half Biscuit.
Q – Anything else you’d like to add?
Roll on January 22nd!
Sunday, 4 December 2022
New! Chonburi FC Goal Times (First Leg): 2022/23
Goals Scored
First Half
1-15 = 3
16-30 = 4
31-45 = 6
45+ = 0
Total = 13
Second Half
46-60 = 2
61-75 = 5
76-90 = 5
90+ = 1
Total = 13
Goals Conceded
First Half
1-15 = 3
16-30 = 2
31-45 = 2
45+ = 0
Total = 7
Second Half
46-60 = 2
61-75 = 0
76-90 = 0
90+ = 1
Total = 3
Thursday, 1 December 2022
New! My Thai Football Diary - November, 2022
FA Cup R1: Nakhon Pathom Utd 2-1 Chonburi
Landed in Bangkok at 18:30hrs. Got through Customs and Immigration in no time. After replacing my UK SIM card with my Thai one, the first thing I did was check the FA Cup score. Wish I hadn't bothered. Chonburi lost 2-1 at Nakhon Pathom Utd. A great start to my trip! Oh well, there's always the League Cup.
Saturday 5th November
TPL: Chiang Rai Utd 1-1 Chonburi
Invited my mates, Tim, Claire and Osman round to watch the match on TV. There's no real substitute for being at the game, but sitting at home with drinks, snacks and a group of good friends comes close. We were all disappointed with the result, especially after Chonburi had a perfectly good "winning goal" ruled out by VAR late on. Afterwards we went for pizza at a local SriRacha restaurant to cheer ourselves up. Came home and wrote my match report.
Thursday 10th November
Chonburi Stadium
My first visit to Chonburi Stadium since May. It was good to be back. I strolled around inside, took a few photos and breathed in the atmosphere. It was lovely to be home. Popped into the club shop. What a disappointment. The shelves were almost bare. The girl behind the counter was pretty surly too. My wife bought a set of stickers and a key ring. I left empty handed.
Sunday 13th November
TPL: Chonburi 4-0 Lampang
My first match at Chonburi Stadium since I saw us lose 1-2 against Nakhon Ratchasima in April. I was hoping for better things today. Spent the early part of the day pottering around Ang Sila with Nui and Val and then made our way to the ground. Met most of the usual suspects in the usual place and had a good old catch up. Visited the club shop. This time the shelves were full - but not with anything that would fit me (!!). I purchased a "Fan Cheer" shirt (XXL) - which I'll probably never wear - and vowed to go on a diet. The staff were much more friendly today. The game was entertaining, especially the last twenty minutes. Spoke to Harry post match and learned a few interesting things. Came home and wrote my report.
Wednesday 16th November
League Cup R3: Nakhon Pathom Utd 1-0 Chonburi (aet)
It's deja vu all over again. Sadly - or possibly not! - family commitments meant I couldn't travel to Nakhon Pathom for this one so I had to settle for watching it on the tele. In all honesty, ninety nine times out of a hundred we would have won this match comfortably. Apart from a stodgy first half, we were in complete control, but couldn't find a way through a stubborn defence and a keeper in splendid form. Oh well, there's always next year.
Sunday 20th November
TPL: Nakhon Ratchasima 1-0 Chonburi
Again, family commitments meant I missed out on a trip to one of my favourite cities (Sorry, Russ, but thanks for the match report). And from a football perspective, I was glad I didn't go. A bizarre starting XI meant we were always chasing the game, after going behind early on. Still, a much improved second half performance gave us armchair fans something to get excited about. We deserved at least a draw. I still wish I could've gone. It's not always about the match.
Friday 25th November
TPL: Chonburi 1-0 Port
On my way to meet my lift, I had to stop and shelter from the rain for about 45 minutes. Things were looking bleak. Got picked up by my mate Matt and we headed to the ground. The sky was black, the rain was pelting down and the roads were flooded. It was not looking good. Arrived at the stadium and stayed in the car until it (eventually) stopped raining. Met up with an old friend, and Port fan, Marco. It was lovely to see him. Thankfully, the kick off was delayed so we could chat for longer. Bought a replica shirt from the shop - the lovely white away kit. The match itself was a farce - waterlogged pitch and VAR ruined it - and shouldn't have been played. Still, we won 1-0. After a post match drink, Matt drove me home.
Saturday 26th November
Championship: Samut Prakan City 1-1 Udon Thani
Rode the motorbike up to the Samut Prakan SAT Stadium to watch Samut Prakan City play Udon Thani. I'd left home early because I thought it might rain. However, it stayed fine so arrived a good two and a half hours before kick off. I took the opportunity to take a few photos and have a mooch. Just after 5:00pm, I met my pal, Phil and his wife, Tun. He helped me buy a ticket, bought me a beer and guided me onto the terraces. It was an entertaining game, that the home side should have won, and a thoroughly enjoyable experience. After saying our goodbyes, I set off on the bum numbing 100 minute journey home.
Tuesday 29th November
Chonburi Stadium & Bang Phra Stadium
I hadn't planned on visiting these grounds today, but as I was passing, I thought I'd drop in. Called into the club shop at Chonburi Stadium and bought yet another replica shirt - the red third kit for this season. It looks good and it fits! Then onto Bang Phra Stadium. I had a wander around, took a few photos and reminisced about matches I've watched and played in there. It's one of my favourite stadiums and, even though it now boasts a large main stand, I still find it incredible to think that it was hosting TPL football only 14 years ago.
Wednesday 30th November
FA Cup
Dumped out of the cup a couple of weeks ago so I settled down to watch two ties on the tele. Bangkok Utd comfortably beat Chainat 4-1, after a close first half (0-0) and Chiang Rai Utd won 2-1 away at Ratchaburi, after extra time. Both fairly entertaining games, but I wish we had been playing. Oh well, there's always the league...
NEW!! Advent Calendar: 2022
For this year's Advent Calendar, I will be posting photos of myself wearing a Chonburi shirt in twenty four different locations.
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Window #24
24th December
Shirt: 2009 away
Location: Central, SriRacha
Date: November, 2022
HAPPY CHRISTMAS!!
Window #23
23rd December
Shirt: 2005 away
Location: IPE Stadium, Chonbui
Date: May, 2010
Window #22
22nd December
Shirt: 2005 away
Location: Chonburi Stadium
Date: October, 2010
Window #21
21st December
Location: Chonburi Stadium
Date: August, 2010
Window #20
20th December
Shirt: 2005 away
Location: Rajamangala Stadium
Date: August: 2010
Window #19
19th December
Shirt: 2005 away
Location: Toa Suranaree Sports Stadium, Nakhon Ratchasima
Date: June, 2010
Window #18
18th December
Shirt: 2010 home (long sleeve version)
Location: Doha International Airport
Date: December, 2022
Window #17
17th December
Shirt: 2008 home
Location: Ayutthya Provincial Stadium
Date: August, 2008
Window #16
16th December
Shirt: 2005 away
Location: Supachalasai Stadium
Date: October, 2009
Window #15
15th December
Shirt: 2010 home (long sleeve version)
Location: Chonburi Stadium
Date: November, 2022
Window #14
14th December
Shirt: 2008 home
Location: Supachalasai Stadium
Date: March, 2009
Window #13
13th December
Shirt: 2006 Singapore Cup shirt (match worn)
Location: Chonburi Stadium
Date: November, 2007
Window #12
12th December
Shirt: 2013 home
Location: Penang International Airport
Date: January, 2017
Window #11
11th December
Shirt: 2015 home
Location: Narnia
Date: December, 2022
Window #10
10th December
Shirt: 2009 third
Location: Parkside Rd (Kendal Town FC)
Date: September, 2020
Window #9
9th December
Shirt: 2009 away
Location: Assumption College, SriRacha
Date: November, 2022
Window #8
8th December
Shirt: 2007 away
Location: Laem Chabang
Date: October, 2008
Window #7
7th December
Shirt: 2022 away (Fan Cheer edition)
Location: Bang Phra Stadium
Date: November, 2022
Window #6
6th December
Shirt: 2009 away
Location: Suvarnabhumi Airport
Date: December, 2022
Window #5
5th December
Shirt: 2008 home
Location: Bangkok University Stadium
Date: September, 2008
Window #4
4th December
Shirt: 2011 home
Location: The Floating Pier, Bang Saen
Date: November, 2022
Window #3
3rd December
Shirt: 2020/21 home
Location: Eric Morecambe statue, Morecambe, Lancashire
Date: September, 2021
Window #2
2nd December
Shirt: 2005 away
Location: Princess Srindhorn Stadium, SriRacha
Date: March, 2009
Window #1
1st December
Shirt: 2010 home (long sleeve version)
Location: Laem Thaen Beach, Bang Saen
Date: November, 2022
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