New! Mythbuster - Chiang Rai Utd: 2023

Away fans always enjoy a trip to Chiang Rai Utd's stadium

Whenever the discussion of best grounds and trips on offer in Thai football comes up, very rarely do Chinag Rai Utd get a mention. The purpose built uniformity of Buriram Utd's Thunder Castle and Ratchaburi's Dragon Stadium seem to be popular, but to some Chaing Rai offers something a little different. There's a slightly unplanned ramshackle charm to its four stands, no running track, a decent away end, great views, and a European style atmosphere where home and away fans can trade insults through a wire mesh fence. Oh and they have a great big fibre-glass beetle on the main concourse as well as a fine selection of food vendors. And at one point they also had a life-size cardboard cut-out of Big Bill. And what ground wouldn't be enhanced by one of those!

The main downside is that the ground is a fair way out of town, with limited options to get back without assistance from one of the friendly locals. But, on the plus side, it's walkable to and from the airport. Handy if you've got to catch a plane home at full time. All in all, it certainly seems to be the case that a visit to the Chiang Rai Stadium makes for a glorious football experience!

Outside of Buriram Utd, Chiang Rai Utd sets the standard for what provincial teams should strive to be

I think this was certainly the case during their early years - when I interviewed one of their fans in 2011 he said, "I have great respect for Khun Miti's professionalism, his vision, perseverance and strength. And I admire him."  However, the owner/president seems to have taken his eye off the ball recently. From an outside perspective, it looks like his popularity is waning and he has made some unpopular decisions. This seems to be supported by the alarming drop in attendance figures. This season they are pulling in an average of 1,784 per match. Which compares unfavourably to the 5,052 they were getting in 2019, the last campaign when crowd figures weren't affected by Covid. It's a worry and clearly is about more than just the football. How they address this, and attempt to turn it around, will be interesting.

Chiang Rai Utd, the team that cheated their way to a title

This is a prickly one, particularly for fans of Chiang Mai FC. The Beetles took six points off their "adopted" club that season and also had to rely on them grabbing a last day, last minute equaliser against title rivals, Buriram Utd, in order to be crowned champions. Even then, they only lifted the trophy on a superior head to head record over the Thunder Castle. Whether you consider this "cheating" or not depends on your perspective. But without those two "gimmes" from the Lanna Tigers, and the huge cash incentive their players were offered to stop Buriram Utd winning on that fateful final day, they wouldn't have overhauled the team from Isaan.

Chaing Rai Utd develop future national team players

Many moons ago Chiang Rai United came into a little bit of money, the details of exactly how are a little sketchy, but nevertheless, despite grossly overpaying for Tanaboon they invested it wisely. Their philosophy was simple, buy each and every member of Muangthong Utd’s youth team, who at the time had a stacked first team and a distinct lack of forward planning. Fast forward a season or two and Phitiwat, Siwakorn, Suriya, Chiyawat, Shinniphat and Thithiphan, alongside their own academy starlet, Ekkanit Panya, were bringing home the silverware, impressing in the ACL and receiving call-ups for the national team. Whilst their financial clout has since dried up they still endeavour to turn around the misfortunes of underappreciated players that they see value in (see Montree, Sanukran, Atikhun et al), but the current crop of misfits seem less likely to make Mano’s match day squads.

Chiang Rai Utd are a predominantly defensive team

It's difficult to recall a time “The Beetles” haven’t lined up with a back five. This isn’t necessarily a defensive manoeuvre in itself, but with players like Tanasak and Victor in possession, the chances that they will look to carry out the ball out of defence is unlikely. Whilst the term “The Beautiful Game” may have been lost in translation up north, Chiang Rai Utd do add pleasing variance to the game. They are unapologetically direct and the effectiveness of this can be measured by their title-winning campaign in 2019. They are now considered the litmus test for any eye-pleasing, possession-based Thai side who may play decent stuff at home, but can they do it on a sweltering Wednesday evening with hazardous air pollution levels in Chiang Rai?

They are a bloody tough team to beat on their home patch

Our abysmal league record up there - P11 W1 D4 L6 F14 A20 Pts7 - would appear to support this statement, but how do others fare in the far north?  Well, their home form this season is impressive. They have amassed 25 points from 13 matches. And only suffered 2 defeats - against Port and Bangkok Utd, with both coming in the past few weeks. However, last year they suffered 6 losses on their own patch, twice as many as they did on their travels. Which, is pretty poor. A peek back to the 2020/21 campaign shows they were bettered 3 times on home soil. So, in conclusion, over the past three seasons I'd say their home form is pretty average. It only seems to be a "bloody tough team to beat" when we visit.

Chiang Rai is a wonderful town to visit

It's a delightful town for a weekend away, with sights easily covered in a couple of days and a centre that offers enough eating and drinking options to keep you entertained without being overwhelming. You've got a plethora of cheap places to stay and - so I'm reliably informed - a little 'nightlife soi' down by the clock tower for those who fancy getting their tummy rubbed. However, if you prefer something more upmarket, it also boasts a great cafe and coffee shop culture. Unfortunately, the air quality and pollution that plague the area are a huge problem. Sadly, no-one in authority seems bothered enough to do anything about solving these issues. 

Chiang Rai Utd have a good cup pedigree

Absolutely. Since 2017, The Beetles have won the FA Cup three times (2017, 2018 & 2020/21), the League Cup once (2018) and finished runners up (once) and beaten semi-finalists (twice) in the latter competition during the same period. By anyone's standards, that is a pretty impressive cup record.

With thanks to Phil, Jim, Isaac, Richard & Grant

New! Mythbuster - Ratchaburi FC: 2013

Ratchaburi Are A Solid Top Flight Team

Are they though? Or are they just managing to do enough to stay up each year?  Since getting promoted at the end of the 2012 season, they have never finished higher than 4th, and their last five campaigns have seen them come in 6th, 12th, 8th, 8th and 12th respectively. Hardly setting the world alight. If anything, it's a worrying downward trend. Away from the bread and butter of the TPL, they do seem to fare well in the cup competitions. They've reached the FA Cup semi finals three times (including 2016, when the tournament was abandoned before the ties were played, due to the death of the king, and are in the last four this year), were losing finalists in 2019, and have stalled twice at the penultimate stage in the League Cup, since playing in a farcical final in 2012. Their squad at the time included many loanees from their opponents, Buriram Utd, who weren't allowed to play so they turned up with the bare 11 and got thumped 4-1.  But that's as good as it gets...so far.

Ratchaburi Stadium Is The Best Stadium In Thailand

Many of us who have visited 'Dragon Solar Park' agree that it is almost everything you look for as an away fan. The dragon motif is an impressive sight and the large, easy to access car park is great for pre and post match tailgate parties. Where to buy tickets is clear and easy, there's a decent selection of food on offer, and the covered away end (yes, you read that right) has a decent view - which is slightly obscured by a large segregation fence the further back you sit - not just of the pitch, but of the glorious sunsets. Oh, and they have some of the cleanest toilets in the football league too. The one thing that really lets it down for those visiting supporters without their own transport is that long, dark and dangerous road back into town. With nothing in the way of public transport options, you have to hang around in the aforementioned big car park and hope a kindly home fan can give you a lift back to civilisation. But - even if they do cage us in at half time - the consensus seems to be, it's a super ground. If not the best.

There Isn't A Decent Drinking Option In The City

At first glance, Ratchaburi appears to be your typical Thai provincial town, where the pace of life is slow, nothing much goes on and the streets are deserted after 8:00pm. And largely, this is true. But, if you are prepared to look hard enough, there are treasures to be found. The Honeymoon Bar Rooftop & Secret Space might be a bit of a mouthful, but it's a hip happening joint that is well worth checking out. It's run by Ratchaburi FC fans too and they always extend a warm welcome to visiting supporters. Another venue to try is Tapster - a craft beer bar that has been rumoured to arrange taxis to the ground for away fans. There may well be others that you know of, but we don't. Letters to the usual address, please.

Ratchaburi Are Not Disliked By Anyone

I think it's fair to say that Ratchaburi don't quite attract the same amount of ire from fans of other clubs that Buriram Utd, Muang Thong Utd and Thai Port do. They just tend to muddle along, upsetting no-one and not making any enemies. However, there is a section of the Chonburi support that has never  forgiven them - and will never forgive them - for "Bottle of Water Gate". It really still rankles how their "manager" and his goons behaved that day and will always add a touch of edginess to any fixture between the two sides, especially at their place. And the only other reason people seem to dislike them is for bringing Heberty to Thailand. Now there's someone who always provokes a reaction!

Ratchaburi Sack Far Too Many Coaches

Ratchaburi are now on their fifteenth (fifteenth!) coach since the start of the 2018 season. Even by Thai standards, that is a lot. A heck of a lot. The main reason for the heavy turnover appears to be the "manager" (him again!). I kinda get the impression that he's not the easiest person to get along with. Still, the current incumbent, Xavi Moro, has been in the job since July, 2022 - that's a whopping nine months. He must be due a gold watch anytime soon. I wonder what his secret is? Or maybe he knows his boss's secret... Whatever the reason for his (relatively) long service, it could be that stability is the way forward for the Dragons.

Ratchaburi Get Decent Crowds

There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies and Thai league average attendance statistics. The latter always skewered by Buriram Utd's figures being included. So, you can take the following figures with a pinch of salt:

Ratchaburi FC Average Attendances 2018-2023 

(TPL average in brackets)

2018: 3,568 (4,466)

2019: 4,876 (5,699)

20/21: 3,622 (3,310)

21/22: 1,817 (2,481)

22/23: 3,610 (4,371)

As you can see, only once in the past five years has their average been higher than the overall one and in the other seasons, they've fallen a long way short. Of course, there are other factors to take into account - COVID affected seasons and not always accurately reported crowd numbers etc - but it does look like Ratchaburi are struggling to attract fans to matches. I'm sure their owners would be expecting, and hoping for, larger numbers in the ground. Maybe they could invite all their ex-coaches to games in an effort to swell attendances?

With thanks to Kenny, Phil, Rob and Jamie

NEW!! Mythbuster - Buriram Utd: 2021

They have fans all over the country

Wherever you go in Thailand you are guaranteed to see people wearing Buriram Utd shirts. From the sois of Songkhla to the hills of Chiang Rai. They are everywhere. Everywhere. But are these people all fans? I'm not so sure. One of the great things about Buriram Utd's marketing department is that they actually seem to know how to market the club. And supplying cheap, good quality, easily available shirts is obviously a high priority (the knock offs you can buy on markets nationwide should also get a mention here). Add to this the fact that Thais love to be associated with success, and there are a large number of Buriramians (??) living and working all over the land, and you have good reasons for the said garments' ubiquity. How many of the folks sporting them actually go to matches or can even name more than two members of the current squad, is a different kettle of pla altogether.

Newin Chidchob built the club from scratch

No he didn't. No. He. Didn't. Despite what ESPN commentators and various other media outlets want you to believe, he did not build the club from scratch and it's not a fairytale rise from nowhere. The plain truth is that he had a massive head start. The "former politician" bought Provincial Electric Authority FC - a club with a long history who had won the league in 2008 and competed in the AFC Champions League the following year - and moved them lock, stock and barrelful of top players and a coach to Buriram, ready made to compete in the 2011 season. The hard work - on the field - had already been done. Moving the fans, however, proved a bit more difficult. He did offer them free bus rides from Ayutthya to their new north east home (a round trip of 450 miles) for every home match, as a sweetener, but they responded by burning their old scarves and banners.

They have a great stadium

They do. It's the envy of every other club in Thailand. Or should be, if they have any sense. And this was built from scratch...twice! Following the controversial move (see above), Khun Newin set about constructing the i-mobile Stadium to host the town's two clubs. It was OK, but nothing special. However, a few months later, he gave the world the New i-mobile Stadium/Buriam Stadium/The Thunder Castle/Chang Arena* and what a delight it is. Modern, purpose built, good sight lines, great facilities and when it's full, as good as any ground of its size anywhere in the world. It's the envy of supporters the length and breadth of the kingdom and, quite rightly, features in most fan lists of favourite grounds to visit. Without doubt, what Buriram Utd have is what every owner in the Thai league should aspire to.

*Delete where applicable

Everybody hates them

Buriram Utd - and their owner - certainly divide opinion. I'd put the love/hate split at 0.05/99.95. And this has nothing to do with their success. Those of us who've been around long enough still hold a grudge due to their move from Ayutthya - football fans never forget! - and the arrogance of Newin Chidchob. He's just not very likeable. I can appreciate what he's done for his home province - and he is undoubtedly idolised up there - but in a land of tricky little chaps, he's right up there with the trickiest. There have also been a few very unloveable players at the club over the years. Which just adds to the "Booooo!!" factor for the vast majority of us. 

They are the biggest draw in Thai football

This is true. I think it's fair to say that a large number of supporters from other clubs look for their name first on the fixture list - when it finally gets released! - to see when you'll be able to sample the delights of their impressive stadium or when they'll be visiting you. The two fixtures are genuinely something to look forward to. You're pretty much guaranteed a full house when the Buriram Utd roadshow rolls into town. Not only do the locals turn up in numbers, but you get a large, well behaved travelling contingent too. This always makes for a good atmosphere and helps to swell the coffers. Their appeal also extends beyond Thailand. And many people from around the region have become more aware of Thai football due to the Esarn side's appearances in Asia wide competitions. Which can only be a good thing for local football. Right?

They always have great foreign players

Some of their overseas recruits have been a bit hit and miss recently, but, by and large, they have a habit of signing top quality foreign players. And this is a big reason why they've done so well over the years. The well respected coach, Steve Darby states that any non Thais at a club should be better than what's locally available and always in the starting line up. Buriram Utd clearly believe in this maxim as well. They don't use up those valuable foreign slots on any old rubbish...like some others I could mention...

They have won the TPL seven times*

No, no, no, no, no, no, no they haven't. There are those who will try and tell you otherwise. But they're wrong. How can they possibly lay claim to a trophy won by a club - with a different name, a history and a tradition - located nearly 250 miles away? How?! And as for their "first" title win as a north east based club, they were still piggybacking on - and masquerading as - PEA then. These are the facts. Buriram Utd as a club didn't exist until 2012, when there was a merger between Buriram PEA (TPL champions, League Cup winners & FA Cup winners in 2011) and Buriram FC (2011 Division One champions). Making this one of those rare occasions when the suffix United is actually appropriate. Anything before this doesn't count. It really doesn't. And don't get me started on the farce that was Wuachon Utd...

*See also number of FA Cup and League Cup wins

They always have nice kits

Yes they do. Plain and simple is the key here. They never go in for flashy and their kits always have a touch of class about them. They also scream "power and success!"And while I'd never ever ever go as far as buying one, I do like the cut of their self produced, cloth. I wish my own club would take note. They can keep their trophies (the ones they have won legitimately), their big crowds, their fantastic stadium, their egotistical mad as a frog in a sock owner and his wife. None of that makes me jealous - especially the latter. But I would kill to have those strips!

Thanks to Alec, Phil, Russ & Vinnie

NEW!! Mythbuster - The FA Cup: 2021

It gives you the chance to visit new grounds and new towns

For many fans, the opportunity to visit grounds and towns they've never been to before is this competition's biggest appeal. It's always nice when you're drawn away against a lower league side who are based in the middle of nowhere. Giantkilling is relatively uncommon in Thailand (although we've been on the end of a couple recently!) so it's generally approached as a risk free day (or couple of days) out and the chance to relax and enjoy a game in a ramshackle stadium. And the trip to an unfamiliar location is often more entertaining than the match.

Clubs don't take the competition seriously

The modern trend of fielding "weakened" teams in cup ties certainly extends to Thailand. A lot of top flight clubs appear to treat this competition as an inconvenience rather than a chance to bag some silverware, and an AFC place. The theory being that a second string TPL side will still be too strong for one further down the pyramid so let's "rest' our best players. On the whole, this appears to be true. Thankfully (?), Chonburi don't subscribe to this premise and will always put out a competitive starting XI.

The FA Cup lacks glamour

For anyone who grew up in England pre 1980, the phrase "FA Cup" will send shivers down your spine and make the hairs on your arms stand up. It was always a big deal and 3rd Round Day was the biggest of the lot. It didn't matter who you supported or how slim your team's chances were of progressing, the competition was important. Sadly, this appears to be no longer true. Even more tragically, it has never been the case here. When the tournament was revived in 2009 - to cash in on the domestic boom - it was with great fanfare, but after the initial excitement had died down, the cup lost its sheen. Why, even the TV channels can't be bothered showing the matches.

A day at the final is a good day out

For all its faults and the apparent lack of interest, it is all worth it when your team gets to the final. You're always guaranteed a ticket and a day out in Bangkok with your mates. The FA pull out all the stops for the showpiece game - and are probably asking themselves why they bother with the earlier rounds and not go straight to the final. These are the type of events they excel at in this country and you are sure to have a good time. Especially if you win!

Fans don't take the competition seriously

It's true that crowds are traditionally low for FA Cup ties. Even the semi finals struggle to attract decent numbers. However, as most of the matches are played midweek, it is not really all that surprising, especially when long distances are involved. I haven't had the chance to compare Wednesday night league attendances with Wednesday night cup games, but I'm willing to bet that they're not that different at most clubs.

The draw is a farce

Yes. It is. And it takes for forever - even when there are only four names in the "hat". If you've never seen a Thai FA Cup draw, you haven't lived. And it is something you need to do once (and probably only once!) in your life. The event usually involves hundreds of people - men in suits, ladies in formal dress, blokes in football kit, scantily clad females and just about every other Tom, Dick and Somchai you can think of - and none of them appear to know what they're doing. The process itself is also very complicated. All in all, it's a great example of how to turn something simple into something incomprehensible. Just pull the balls out of a bag!

There is very little communication about the FA Cup

Getting information about Thai football can be quite difficult - although it's a zillion times easier that it was 25 years ago. However, for some reason, the FA Cup seems to be shrouded in mystery. No-one appears to know when the draws will be taking place and quite often, this is also true of the ties. Dates always appear to be hazy, locations change and as for kick off times...well! The main lines of communication seem to be an outdated Facebook page and word of mouth. Quite frankly, it's just not good enough. We shouldn't be relying on the bloke down the pub for our updates.

Thanks to Phil, Alec, Rob & Jamie

NEW!! Mythbuster - Samut Prakan City: 2021

Exposing the truth and the lies about Samut Prakan City.

They Have Nice Kits

Yes they do, especially now they have got rid of those pointless stripes that looked like braces (suspenders, if you're American). This year's beautiful, and simple, dark blue home strip is complimented by those lovely yellow socks. It always puts me in mind of the kit Chelsea wore in the 1970 FA Cup final and is a fine example of less is more. That said, I'm not too enamoured with that garish fluo away kit. What's wrong with plain white?

They Are The Thai Equivalent Of Milton Keynes Dons

I really don't know where to start with this one, but I'll have a go. When Pattaya Utd were taken over and moved from Sin City to Samut Prakan, there was a lot of hand wringing and complaining (mainly from foreigners) on social media. However, this outrage appeared to completely overlook, or ignore, the fact that the Dolphins themselves had bought Bang Phra's place in the top flight back in 2009. What goes around comes around, I guess. And what about Bangkok Glass and Buriram Utd? They seem to get off scot free whenever this subject crops up. Maybe a bit of research into how these two clubs first arrived in the TPL wouldn't go amiss. So even though it goes against the grain for most of us, I think we just have to accept that this is the way it is here and, even though the number of moves have dropped in recent years, it is likely to always happen. We'd better get used to it. And in the mean time, stop singling out this lot.

They Get Poor Crowds

They came rock bottom of the average crowd league table last season and - before Covid19 struck - they were probably on course to repeat the feat this year. Sadly it doesn't seem as if the locals are that interested in watching top flight Thai football. One story I heard to back this up involves a fan jumping in a cab and asking the driver to take him to the stadium. The cabbie had no idea that the club even existed. Now there's a big black mark for the commercial department. What on earth have they been doing for the past two years? However, with local ex-pat (and super fan) Phil Williams banging the Samut Prakan City drum on his Twitter feed and widely read Ajarn.com blog, at least someone is doing their best to promote the club. All credit to him and more power to his elbow, I say. And those fans who do turn up are as passionate as any in the league, with their big flags and non stop chanting. It's not always about size...

Their Ground Is Crap

The Samut Prakan SAT Stadium comes in for a lot of stick, but it also has its admirers. You can certainly count me in the latter camp. I love the ramshackle nature of it and how it looks like it has been cobbled together in a hurry from bits that have been discarded from other grounds. The shed opposite the main stand is particularly beautiful in an odd way. I really love the location too - and I know I'm not alone in this view. That bustling high street that runs next to it is the perfect setting for a stadium of this nature, giving it a genuine urban feel and firmly planting its roots in the local community. Talk about having a club dropped on your doorstep. The challenge now is to get that local community through the turnstiles.

They Play Attacking Football

Surely this isn't up for debate?! Their 27 league matches this season have produced 100 goals - the century coming up last Sunday, courtesy of a controversial penalty for Buriram Utd deep into injury time. And that's what it's all about, right? I mean goals, not controversy. Fans want to see a winning team, but they also want entertainment. At Samut Prakan City, you currently get both. It's a fine combination. And when the standard of football drops, there's always the odd stray dog to run onto the pitch. Show me a crowd that doesn't love that.

They Have A Good Coach

Masatada Ishii comes with a good reputation. He won a couple of trophies in his native Japan, whilst at Kashima Antlers, and picked up a Manager of the Year award so also has some pedigree. Most of the reports suggest he gets the best out of the players he has and if Samut Prakan City can finish the season in 7th place or above, I think he can be considered a success. Hopefully, he'll still be there next year when - all being well - an uninterrupted campaign will give him the opportunity to build on the foundations he has put in place over the past 14 months. However, if the powers that be do decide to get rid of him, I can imagine there'd be quite a queue of clubs wanting to sign him. Who knows, we might be one of them?

With thanks to Russ, Grant, Jamie, Alec, Gian & Mark

NEW!! Mythbuster - Thai Port: 2021

Separating the fact from the fiction at Thai Port

Madam Pang Is Port FC

One of my favourite shows when I was growing up was 'All Our Saturday's'. This short lived sitcom featured Diana Dors as an underwear factory owner who takes over the local rugby league club. As Di Dorkins (clever!), the former Ms Fluck renames the hard bitten, but hapless, working class team, Frilly Things and sets about turning them into a side capable of challenging for honours, in spite of initial hostility from the players and the fans. The parallels are uncanny. Just as DD was the face and profile of the fictitious club, Mme Pang is very much to the fore when it comes to the public persona of the Klong Toey side. Would they survive without her? Probably. Would they have the same financial clout and success? Probably not. Would the new owner plaster his or her visage over everything that is connected to Port FC to the extent the current one does? Definitely not. 

They Will Soon Be Leaving The PAT Stadium

As far as I'm aware there is no concrete evidence to support this story, but the rumours won't go away. It's no secret that the land on which the ground is situated is prime real estate and a developer's dream so it shouldn't be a surprise that there is always speculation. And, as we all know, it's not that uncommon for Thai clubs to move around - indeed the "Port Lions" themselves called four different grounds "home" between 2006 and 2009. Leaving the capital would surely be madness, but it's not inconceivable that they could relocate somewhere within the city limits. Whether this is to an existing ground (back to the Thai-Japanese?) or a spanking new development, built with all that lovely Muang Thai Life Insurance cash, remains to be seen. Or they could be crazy and follow the rest of the Port Authority down to Laem Chabang... 

Everyone Loves PAT Stadium

Four stands, compact ground, fans close to the pitch, ramshackle, earthy, a "bit edgy". What's not to like? Well, for some away fans it depends where you sit to watch the match. Many have complained about restricted views - in spite of the close proximity to the action -  and even surly stewards, spoiling their match day experience. The small section behind the goal is particularly unpopular with visitors and the recently installed seats seem to have caused a bit of a stink too. Truth is, it's not a particularly bad ground, but not as universally popular as many would have us believe. There are certainly others that come higher up on most fan favourite lists.

They Have The Best Fans In The League

There's no doubt that a packed - or even two thirds full - PAT Stadium guarantees a good atmosphere. But when the capacity is only 12,000, it's a lot easier to achieve this than if you play in a ground that is twice the size. In all fairness, a big night at Buriram Utd, Nakorn Ratchasima, Chiang Mai or Muang Thong Utd when the stands are jammed to capacity, is probably ahead of anything generated in Klong Toey in the "hairs on the back of your neck" stakes. Why, we've even had those occasions at Chonburi, in the dim and distant past. Sure, their fans are passionate, but every club has its diehards - the type who are prepared to travel the length and breadth of the country to cheer their team, regardless of kick off times, league position or level of success. Ultimately, the Port supporters are no different to anyone else who loves their club.

They Play Exciting, Attacking Football

With their "sign anything that moves" transfer policy ramped up to "11", it is inevitable that there'll be some thrillers involving Thai Port. And they've certainly been value for money this season. Their 26 league matches have yielded 86 goals - second only to Samut Prakan City's return of 97 - and are the TPL's top scorers with 54. The fact that they currently sit in third place, and have qualified for this year's AFC Champions League, would also suggest that the "kid in a candy store" approach has been rewarded. However, I'd settle for a drab 0-0 on Sunday. You can have too much excitement, you know.

They Have An Excellent Selection Of Food And Drink At Their Ground

They sure do. In common with many areas around Thai grounds on match days, the Port Authority food and drink experience is something special. The vendors roll up early, set out their stalls and the fans flock to buy their wares. It's a highlight of going to games in this country. The PAT Stadium's location certainly helps in this regard. It's fairly easy to get to and is close to houses and businesses. And the demand is clearly there from the supporters. In my experience, they continue serving well after the final whistle too. Which is a definite plus in my book!

With thanks to Russ, Grant, Jamie, Phil, Sven and Alec

NEW!! Mythbuster - BG Pathum Utd: 2021

A quick look at some of the myths surrounding BG Pathum Utd

Blue Is The Colour

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.

The Leo Stadium Is A Nightmare To Get To

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

NEW!! Mythbuster - Bangkok Utd: 2021

For some reason, fans of other Thai clubs seem to have very strong opinions on Bangkok Utd. Here I look at some of the more popular ones and explore how close they are to the reality.

Thammasat Is An Awful Stadium

It has been called a decaying concrete bowl with a nightmare car park and is often cited as the top flight stadium with the worst view from the away end. But is it really as bad as people make out? I'm not so sure. And there are certainly grounds where it's harder to see the action from the vantage point of a travelling fan - hello, Rayong. I quite like Thammasat and have always enjoyed my trips there - although not always what has happened on the pitch. The fan zone is pretty decent too. I believe it gets a bad rap and I'll always be prepared to stick up for it.

They Won The League In 2006

No they didn't. Bangkok University did. Even though the current club rose from the ashes of the college club, they are a completely different entity and have no right to claim any honours won by their predecessors, in spite of what certin websites and football associations might try to tell you. See also Buriram Utd/PEA/Buriram PEA and Police Tero.

They Played Attractive Football Under Mano Polking

This was certainly true (no pun intended) during the early seasons he was in charge and when they were "everybody's favourite second team". They had a lot of the young, cool Thai and half Thai players, many of whom who were known for their fashion sense. The closest Thailand has come to emulating the Scouse Spice Boys of yore. However, in later years they had a reputation for bullying referees and truculent, boorish behaviour, which lost them a lot of admirers and even resulted in open hostility from those who had once sung their praises. Their quality of football suffered too.

They're Always The Bridesmaid, But Never The Bride

Under Mano they finished 8th, 5th, 2nd, 3rd 2nd and 4th in the league, and also came runners up in the 2017 FA Cup. Not a particularly bad record, but I expect a few of you reading this are surprised as I am that it isn't more impressive. During this period, they were often many people's favourites to win silverware, or at least come close. And this is without considering their less than average form in the League Cup, where they only got past the second round twice. So, all things considered, they are more the flower girls or ushers than the bridesmaids.

They Have Nice Kits

They do. Once they decided which colour to play in - they've flirted with orange and green-  they've had some lovely strips over the years. I was particularly fond of the recent "odd socks" away kit. That was gorgeous and a little bit different. This season's home kit (pictured) is an absolute belter too, although that blue monstrosity they've sported a couple of times recently is one of the most hideous things I've ever seen!

They Don't Play In Bangkok

Why are they called "Bangkok" Utd? They play in the middle of nowhere. Their ground is miles out of the city and hard to get to etc etc. Well...Grimsby Town, anyone? Or even Manchester Utd. My personal grievance is more with the United part of their name than the Bangkok bit. However, I believe they are entitled to use the name of the capital. They took over the reins from Bangkok University and, of course, were based within the city limits for a number of years before moving "north". And to finally settle the argument, The Clash's 1982 gig at Thammasat University is listed as "Bangkok". That's good enough for me.

They Have No Fans

Currently, this is correct. But then again, nor do any other club. Joking aside, is the statement "they have no fans" really accurate? I'll publish the fact below and you can make up your own minds.

Bangkok Utd at Thammasat Stadium

2016: Average attendance = 3,321; TPL average attendance = 5,428; Attendance position = 11th

2017: Average attendance = 2,855; TPL average attendance = 4,604; Attendance position = 13th

2018: Average attendance = 2,909; TPL average attendance = 4,466; Attendance position = 13th

2019: Average attendance = 4,378; TPL average attendance = 5,699; Attendance position = 9th

Those are the figures. What are your thoughts?

They'd Get Bigger Crowds If They Moved Back To The Thai-Japanese Stadium

Hmm...this is an interesting one. They are certainly more well known and popular than when they last played there (2015) and the Thai league certainly gets more coverage than it did six years ago. Also, with the demise of Army Utd, they'd be the only top flight team in the area. Then throw in the fact that the Thai-Japanese is easier to get to for many, and we could be onto something. Therefore, I'd be tempted to say yes - as long as they continued to be a top four side.

Mano Polking Is Bangkok Utd, Bangkok Utd Is Mano Polking 

This photo practically screams "Mano Polking Is Bangkok Utd, Bangkok Utd Is Mano Polking!", doesn't it. Having been at the club for so long and having been relatively successful, it's inevitable that Mano's name and that of the club are inextricably linked, especially in a country where coaches - and particularly foreign coaches - come and go with such regularity. New boss, Totchawan Sripan will need to achieve some great things if he is to step out of the Brazilian's considerable shadow. His first task would appear to be getting the players to break through that mental barrier they seem to have when it comes to proving they are more than just top four contenders. If he can do that - and quickly - we could soon be asking "who's Mano?"

They Must Be Loaded With All That 'True' Money Behind Them

Whilst it is clear that True have pumped a fair amount of cash into the club, there's no real evidence that Bangkok Utd are able to compete financially with the real big hitters in the Thai league. The multi media giants are also going through something of a transisitional phase themselves just now - losing the rights to broadcast local domestic football being a big blow to their product, and possibly their bank balance - so whether or not they continue to invest, may well depend on how successful the team is in the near future. I'm not really sure that the sponsorship deal makes a big difference in propelling them to be a top club, but they would be stuffed without it.

Thanks to Phil, Russ, Jamie, Grant & Sven