New! Interview With The Blogger (BG Pathum Utd): 2023

BG Pathum Utd fan, Obb, sent me a few questions ahead of today's match. Here are my responses.

Lately, appointing ex-players as first-team head coach seems to be a trend in Thai football, do you think Chonburi FC made the right decision to appoint Adul Lahsoh?

In the short term, yes. It probably was the right thing to do. It was obvious that Sasom had run his course and was struggling to get any kind of performance from the team. We needed to try and change things before it got even worse. Bringing in Adul before the end of the season was a good move. He's still loved at the club - so it appeased the fans - and it gave him the opportunity to test himself coaching in the top flight. It also gave the bosses the chance to see what he was made of. I think the three results we've had so far under his control have been what we expected. If he can go out on Friday and avoid defeat, his appointment can be considered a success. However, I don't believe that he's the long term answer and I don't think the club management do either. Still, it's been wonderful to have him back at Chonburi - whatever happens next.

Former-BGPU head coach Makoto Teguramori is heavily linked with Chonburi FC job, what are your thoughts on potentially having him as your new head coach next season?

His overall record isn't that impressive, but he did a great job at BG when he was there a couple of years ago. He clearly knows, and understands what is required in, the Thai league and - if it happens - this could be quite an exciting appointment. He'll need to get the best out of the young players we currently have in the squad, as we don't have the money to throw around on salaries and transfer fees. The management are obviously looking for someone who can bring on the youngsters who have come through the academy. I just hope that he is aware of this and understands that his hands will be tied as regards signings.

What are your overall opinions of your foreign players this season? Name one foreign player you want to keep for the next season.

It's been a bit of a mixed bag. One or two have disappointed and a couple have impressed. Danilo set off like a house on fire. He was top of the goal scoring charts for a large chunk of the season and banging them in (at the right end!) for fun. But, like the rest of the squad, he struggled during a very difficult second leg; the reasons for which still baffle me?? I have no explanation for why we dropped away so suddenly and so spectacularly. As Toyah once said; it's a mystery! As for the others, I'm not really sure they've done that well. Byung-soo has been steady over the course of the year and weighed in with the odd crucial goal. However, if I'm being honest, I don't think any of them will be here next year. Partly as a result of cost cutting and partly because they haven't really done enough to warrant keeping. On the plus side, it has been great having Denis back from injury. I think if any of the foreign players were to be kept, he'd be at the top of the list.

This has been a great season for Chonburi FC's youngsters - who impressed you the most? Who you do expect to do well next season?

As we are having to put faith in our young players, it's good to see so many coming through and claiming a regular first team place. Kritsada, Chatmongkol, Channarong and Sittichok have all made an impression in the last couple of seasons and they do seem to be getting better. We need to make sure that they are well looked after and coached properly during the next crucial stage of their development. It could be difficult for them being thrust into the spotlight next season, when they'll be among the more experienced players in the squad, and expected to perform consistently. Hopefully, the senior management, and new head coach - whoever it might be -  will know how to handle them, so they don't burn out and can carry on improving.

In hindsight, and from a Chonburi FC fan, do you think selling Worachit for big fee to BGPU was a great business move?

Worachit was a bit of an enigma at Chonburi. In his early days, he was such an exciting raw talent and it appeared we had unearthed something special. Then he went off the boil for a long period and it looked like he was yet another one who had promised so much but delivered so little. However, during the latter part of his time at Chonburi, he rediscovered his mojo and started to perform to his potential. So, of course, what do we is sell him to a rival club. It was a baffling decision by the management and it's come back to haunt us. Big time. I'd love to still have him at Chonburi now he's grown into the player we saw flashes of in his younger days and knowing that he will continue to improve. Whether it was a good business move is open to debate, as I don't know what we've done with the money. It's probably just been used to keep us ticking over.

Bangkok Glass 0-0 Chonburi (25/3/12) - Match Report: 2012

TPL

Bangkok Glass 0-0 Chonburi

Leo Stadium

Attendance: 10,754

Sunday 25th March, 2012

Match Report

BANGKOK GLASS AND CHONBURI ENDS IN STALEMATE

by Malky

TPL championship hopefuls, Bangkok Glass and Chonburi, played out a 0-0 draw at the Leo Stadium.

The first chance of the game came on 9 minutes when Sintaweechai had to tip a Samuel Ajayi shot around the post. From the resultant corner, Hiek's downward header bounced narrowly over the bar.

Chonburi's best chance of the half came on 14 minutes when the unmarked Kroekrit headed wide when he really should have it the target. Had Pipob been on the end of the cross, surely he would have opened the scoring.

The home team seemed happy to allow Chonburi possession and hit on the break using Ajayi and Saruta's pace.

On the half hour, Ajayi's shot smacked the base of the post after he'd played a one-two with Chatree. Minutes later the outside of the same post was struck by a cross from Sutee.

Chonburi had been quiet, but they reminded BG that they were still in the game when Ludo's powerful shot was knocked wide by Kritsakorn.

In first half injury time, Sintaweechai was called into action again to make a good save from Saruta's shot across goal. That was the last action of the half as the score was goalless at the break.

The second 45 minutes speaking politely was drab. The closest the game got to a goal was a Suree header from a Chonburi corner that sailed 3 feet over the bar.

Overall,  a point each is a reasonable return for both sides. The pair of them remain undefeated and their defences have yet to breached.

100% Unofficial 'It's A Habit That Sticks' Badge: 2018

 A badge I had made to promote my original website in 2018.

New! Port 3-1 Chonburi (7/5/23) - Match Report: 2023

TPL

Port 3-1 Chonburi 

PAT Stadium 

Attendance: 6,250

Sunday 7th May, 2023

Match Report

By Marco

After an enjoyable trip to Malaysia traversing the country and watching Liga Super action, I flew back to Thailand on Saturday with the Port vs Chonburi fixture high on my agenda. I spent most of Sunday morning and afternoon back-and-forth to Lotus, running errands and sorting out stuff for my apartment. Working up a sweat during the day proved to be excellent preparation for a scorching evening at PAT Stadium, with temperatures pushing 40c. It was, without doubt, the hottest I've ever been at a football match. Port vs Chonburi has been a match of extremes this season - in contrast to yesterday's sweat fest, the reverse fixture took place on a waterlogged pitch during a torrential downpour on horrible night at Chonburi Stadium. 

I made my way to the ground on the MRT and bumped into the ever genial Geoff, who filled me in on the latest Port news on the way to the ground. On arrival there were rumours that the Port's ticket allocation had sold-out. Just as I was contemplating turning my shirt inside out and getting a ticket for the away end, Dominic came to the rescue and offered me a spare - which was greatly accepted. Ticket secured, the next mission was to locate a can of Chang - much to the chagrin of the Sandpit crew who, inexplicably, prefer Leo. Chang sorted and dispatched, it was time to join the crowd in Zone B. One very noticeable aspect of PAT Stadium these days is our ever-growing foreign fanbase. I'm proud to say that being a farang Port fan is the only trend I've ever been at the forefront of. Over on the far side of the ground Chonburi had filled their away section for what, I believe, is their closest away game of the season.

Shortly after finding a decent spec behind the goal with Tom, Dom, Toby and Jim, we were shrouded in a massive Port flag that covered the whole stand and was over our heads during the Royal Anthem. It was suggested that if it stayed there we wouldn't have to watch the match. Earlier in the season I might have been up for that but Port have hit a decent vein of form in recent weeks and went into the game with 5 wins from the last 6 and knowing that a victory would secure third spot in the table. Chonburi, too, have shown recent signs of improvement following Adul Lahsoh's interim appointment.

Writing this from memory I can't recall much action during the first 30 minutes. I think there was a fruitless VAR check for a Chonburi penalty at one point. The game really came to life on 33 minutes when Pakorn's jinking run and cross was slotted home by Bordin Phala to put Port 1-0 up. The lead lasted just five minutes before Chonburi capitalised on a comedy of defensive errors and Yoo Byung-Soo, 'The Ronaldo of Wolmido' (check his Wikipedia page), showed the aerial prowess of the Portuguese Ronaldo to head the ball into the empty net from about 20-yards. With the stadium rapidly emptying in the rush for much-needed half-time refreshments, Port regained the lead. Pakorn's free-kick was flicked-on by ex-Chonburi midfielder Worachit and Danilo could only divert the ball into his own net. The home fans joy was tempered slightly when we realised VAR was back in the action but the goal stood and the half-time whistle followed shortly after. 

Normally at PAT I'd have my usual half-time Chang but it was so hot that I opted for a pint of iced water instead. Good call. I had a bit of trouble getting back into Zone B because the stamp on my arm had worn off but I was back in position for the start of the second-half, with Port attacking our end. The Sharks always carried a threat on the break with the pace of Amadou and the Brazilian duo of Danilo and Dennis Murillo, complete with his blue rinse, but the hosts looked the more likely team to add to their tally. The breakthrough came in the 71st minute after Bordin had hit the woodwork from close-range and Negueba's follow-up shot took a wicked deflection, wrong-footing former Port loanee Chanin Sae-ear in the Chonburi goal. Both sides understandably tired in the last 15 minutes as the game drew to a uneventful conclusion. Port's 3-1 win secured a place in the Asian Champions League qualifiers whilst Chonburi still have the possibility of finishing in fifth place - if they beat BG Pathum United and Chiangrai United fail to beat Police Tero.

The final act of the night saw the home fans bid a fond farewell to Sergio Suarez and David Rochela - two excellent servants to the club. Madame Pang, with her nails-on-chalkboard voice, said a few words and presented the departing Spaniards with a bunch of flowers each and some bags of expensive-looking swag.  

It was great to be back at Port after a 3-month hiatus but with the end of season almost upon us another PAT Stadium-less spell awaits...Time to dust off my Port Authority Futsal shirts and head down to the Warehouse Stadium aka 'The Sweatbox'. It will be a walk in the park after last night's sweltering experience.

Bangkok Utd 2-1 Chonburi (6/5/18) - Match Report: 2018

TPL

Bangkok Utd 2-1 Chonburi

Thammasat Stadium

Attendance: 3,534

Sunday 6th May, 2018

Match report

I nearly didn’t make it to this match. I had been feeling unwell since Saturday morning and by the time Sunday afternoon came around, I could feel myself slipping into the abyss. However, a sense of duty and the fact that it’s only a couple of hours drive away, saw me on the road heading north to Thammasat Stadium, a little after 4:00pm.

 

Even on the journey there were occasions when I felt like turning back - especially at the Bang Na toll, where absolute confusion reigned, with cars being (mis)directed into different lanes, seemingly at the will of a couple of incompetent traffic cops. But still I soldiered on, the numerous drugs I’d taken probably affecting my judgement and ability to make any rational decisions. However, I eventually arrived, somewhat later than planned, at the home of Bangkok United.

 

After I’d found a parking space without any trouble whatsoever, I made an executive decision and decided to treat myself for my efforts - and save fifty baht - by sitting in the main stand. After merrily making my way to the gate - thrillingly passing the team buses and “Player Entrance” on the way - I was told that I needed to go all the way to the other side of the ground, and the furthest point from where I was now, to buy a ticket. A ridiculous set up.

 

Still, I trudged wearily, and dutifully, to the ticket office, dodging puddles and telling myself I’d soon by relaxing in the palatial splendour of section W5. Even the name promised luxury. And, sure enough, ten minutes later, I was reclining my seat, with a glossy match day programme, surveying all before me, and above me. I’d definitely done the right thing and I’d certainly be thankful for that roof if we got a late evening downpour.

 

In spite of my awe, this wasn’t the first time I’d been in this section. I sat here a couple of times when Police Utd used this venue. I’d remembered it as being a pleasant enough experience then (apart from what was happening on the pitch!) and had afforded a decent view. Thankfully, my memory hadn’t let me down and I revelled in my surroundings.

 

The first thing I appreciated was the leg room in front of the seats. It was more than ample. The arm rests on the chair made it a bit of squeeze for a “larger gentleman” like myself, but the space in front of me more than made up for this. The fact that it was sparsely populated also helped; I had lots of space to spread out. I can imagine that it would be a different story were it to be packed, but, let’s face it, that’s never going to happen!

 

I was already congratulating myself on my choice to come in here, when I recalled something else from my previous visits. Police United had people coming round the stand selling food and drink - just like you see in those American movies when the characters go to a baseball game. I hurriedly looked for them, but it was all in vain. Gosh, darn it!

 

I did notice however, that the majority of my fellow main stand dwellers had refreshments so I decided to take it upon myself and go in search. I didn’t have to look very far. For there, on the concourse, less than fifty yards from my seat, was a shop selling snacks. I placed my order, some luk chin and a cup of warm water  - my throat was killing me! - and then perused the club shop next door. What a good idea. Food, drink and souvenirs all easily accessible inside the ground and sold by helpful (he gave me warm water!), friendly staff. Are you paying attention, Chonburi senior management? No, of course you’re not. You never do. All is rosy in your little world, isn’t it!

 

I returned to my place with my goodies and enjoyed them at my leisure, as I watched the first half. This was the life. And it was costing me less than I pay at home and less than my fellow Chonburi fans way, way, way over to my right. I was starting to feel a little bit better.

 

At half time, I didn’t need to rush outside to gobble down some food and race to finish my beer to get back inside in time for kick off, as I do at every home game. I stayed where I was, relaxing and rejoicing in the fact that I was being treated like a grown up. Something that is not always the case at our place.

 

The second half produced some goals (Three, in fact. Two for them and one for us) and some of the regular frustrations; Why don’t we shoot more? Why can’t Chanin find a blue shirted player with his clearances? Why do we conceded so many goals from set pieces? And what do we do in training all week?

 

It had been a fairly entertaining encounter, and, in spite of my moans, I felt we deserved something out of it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be and I exited my new favourite stand with mixed feelings. It had been an enjoyable experience and a fine place from which to watch a sporting event, but, ultimately, we’d left with nothing and slipped down the table.

Now, if only I could rid myself of this sore throat.

New! Interview With The Blogger (Port): 2023

Port fan, Jim sent me some questions ahead of tomorrow's fixture. Here are my replies: 

Adul Lahsoh has come in and seemingly stopped the second half of the season slump at Chonburi. Is he the man for the job longer term?

I'm really pleased for Adul (or Ted, as I humorously now call him) and the fact that he's turned around our season. It's good to have a club legend back at the helm. The fact he's made a great start is a bonus. However, I don't think he's the man for the job long term. If the rumours I'm hearing are true, we're going to have a much lower wage/spending budget next season. Therefore, I think we'll need someone with a bit more experience to come in, maybe with Adul as his assistant. Although, the aforementioned penny pinching could see him get the role as a cost cutting exercise.

This weekend you'll face another former Chonburi midfielder in Worachit Kanitsribampen. If you could only have one of the two turn out for you again which would it be?

Worachit burst onto the scene as an exciting young prospect and showed a lot potential. However, after the initial excitement, he went off the boil and the majority of his time at Chonburi was a major disappointment. Therefore, it's ironic that we sold him just as he was starting to play really well again and show us what he could do. He's a big miss. On the other hand, Adul performed consistently, and impressively, over a number of years and was part of a very successful team. So, it's Adul for me. No contest. Peak Adul would be an asset in any side. 

Worachit has a knack for scoring some big goals, including two last weekend as Port slayed the beast known as Buriram, in its lair. If he scores against you on Sunday where do you stand on the don't celebrate goals against former clubs or treat it like any other game and go wild, debate? 

I don't have a problem with it. Players should celebrate when they score. I know they have bonds with previous teams and fans, but their first thought should be with the team and the supporters of their current club. I remember ex-Oldham centre forward/centre half, Ian Marshall returning to Boundary Park with Ipswich and scoring a couple. He celebrated like mad in front of the Oldham fans, but he is still considered a legend at the club. That's the way it should be

Players having turned out for both Port and Chonburi seems quite a common occurrence. Who are your favourite and least favourite to have done so? And is there anyone who springs to mind as a Port hero and Chonburi dud?

Thiago Cunha. I know he wasn't a great success at your place, but he's an absolute hero at Chonburi. He could be annoying at times, and some of his antics were frustrating, but he was one of the most talented footballers we've ever had at the club. And he did the job he was paid to do; entertain and score goals. I'd have him back in a heartbeat. No question

 

Other than Madam Pang (insert winky thing!), I'm not really sure who's considered a hero at Port, so I can't really answer that question. But, we've had plenty of duds over the years so surely there must be one amongst that bunch who did well at your place. I'll have to do a bit of research to find out who. Can I get back to you on that one?

Most people will be aware that there's a strong friendship between the two fanbases, what's your favourite thing about Port?

My favourite thing about Port is probably some of the kits you've had over the years. When they're done properly, those orange and blue stripes look lovely, though I'm not so sure about the current one. This season's white away with the flashes is quite attractive. And your club shop is where I first bumped into Marco (before our match in 2009). He'll kill me for this, but he's become a really good friend over the years, even though geography dictates that we rarely get the chance to meet in person these days.

And your least?

When Chonburi first came into the Premier League, I used to do a 'stretcher count' at every game; a tally of how many times players were carried off the field only to jump straight back up again once they reached the touchline. I remember Port Authority being one of the very worst offenders. I think they hit double figures in one match. Thankfully, having players carried off to waste time doesn't happen as much anymore. You will have to believe me when I say, the injury feigning and time wasting is nowhere near as bad as it was back then. But we still have a long way to go.

Chonburi were responsible for the only game l can recall being pleased Port lost. As your 2017 2-1 victory in Bangkok ended what l thought was a grim spell of management by Zico (another man with links to both clubs). Have you ever been pleased to see your team beaten?

No. Never. And I don't think I ever will. I'd much rather my team win than see a rival team lose. I want Chonburi to win every game they play and always will do.

A win for Port on Sunday would be a great help in getting us third spot and an ACL place(it could even seal it). As it would also deny Muangthong those things and our clubs are besties, don't suppose you fancy helping? But seriously what are your expectations for the match? And a score prediction?

Port are playing well and they've got the momentum. They are also going hard for that third place spot. Meanwhile, in spite of Adul coming in and turning things around - to an extent - we are still limping towards the end of the season. We have key players away with the SEA Games squad (which I'm not happy about) and, as I mentioned earlier, we'll be losing quite a few when this campaign finishes; I think some of them are probably already "on the plane" or "the beach". Therefore, my expectations are low. As for a score prediction, I think we'll lose 3-0. To be honest, it could even be worse. But I'd like to see us give you a game. 

Finally, a music question. Please can you name a song to sum up Adul era Chonburi, Chonburi's season and this weekend's fixture.

Adul era Chonburi: '100%' - Sonic Youth

Chonburi's season: 'Something's Gone Wrong Again' - Buzzcocks

This weekend's fixture: 'Bangkok' c/w 'Fury of Chonburi' - The Libertines

New! Interview With An Opposition Fan (Port): 2023

Here's my pre match interview with Port fan, James.

Please can you introduce yourself 

Hi, I'm James, currently residing in Australia, though I’ve lived all across Asia in the past. Hoping to return to Thailand in the near future, but in what capacity… I'm not sure yet. At the moment I'm working in the wine industry, but as a licensed coach, I'm hoping to (at some stage) break into the football industry in a full-time role.

How long have you been following Port? 

Since 2016. I travelled to Thailand to meet up with a good friend of mine, who’d played in the league system, and he took me to a few games. I went to Air Force (Thupatemi), Bangkok United (Thammasat), and Port (PAT) on my first trip. From the moment I stepped into PAT: I was hooked. They played Ang Thong that day, with a few of the Ang Thong lads being former teammates of his, so we caught up with them post-game. The next time I ventured to Thailand, I already knew how to get to PAT Stadium from my hotel, and from then on… that was it.

What are some of the things that you like about supporting them? 

A football specific (and size appropriate stadium), as well as the friendly contingent of expat fans, which (for me) makes the matchday experience that little bit better. When you’re at PAT, it almost feels as if you’re hovering just above the players on the pitch at times, and it can (quite easily) be one of the most hostile atmospheres in the Thai pyramid when we play certain clubs.

What have been the highlights of your time supporting Port? 

Honestly: the friends I've made. There have been some unreal matchday experiences along the way (the cup game in 2019, at home to Chiangrai stands out immediately), but it’s the ability to go to PAT on a matchday, have a few beers with mates, and just talk about what we’ve watched. It’s tough to stay awake for games due to the time difference at the moment, but at least I’ll get a highlights package to watch at the minimum.

And the low points?

The many false dawns. The numerous sackings of head coaches, the numerous re-hirings (and re-sackings) of coaches, and so on. There's no doubt that it’s a circus at times… but it’s our circus. The club should be doing a lot better than it does (in my opinion) when you consider the money we’re (rumoured) to spend on the squad, etc. Money doesn’t equal success though, and that’s something that club management fails to understand.

What are your opinions on how the team has performed this season? 

It’s been dysfunctional, as always, but what Port season isn't? The Scott Cooper era didn’t exactly set the world alight immediately, but it was (in my opinion) clear to see that he had the players grafting, which is something that we hadn’t seen under previous head coaches. Too many draws, that should’ve been wins, were his undoing, and the only question that I really had of him during his spell with us were his game management. It is what it is though, and he duly departed.

For me, things went from ‘okay’ to ‘bad’ under Matthew Holland, and I took a bit of a step back during this time.

Things have definitely improved whilst under the duo of Choke and Surapong, which I'm pleasantly surprised by. I really expected things to go from ‘bad’ to ‘worse’ under them, but the revival of sorts that they’ve led has been great to see. To get an away win at Buriram was a good result for the club, but it’s imperative that we build from it. 

How does this year compare with previous seasons? 

It’s been just as dysfunctional as every season I've followed the club, so ‘much of the same’ is probably the fairest response.

What are your hopes, and what would you like to see happen during the close season? 

Stability. There are players at the club (eg. Dolah) that need a multi-year contract extension sorted ASAP, whilst there are players that we need to say “thanks for everything, but it’s time for us to part way.” Sergio Suarez and David Rochela have already announced they’ll be departing, which signals a real ‘changing of the old guard’ so to speak. It’s crucial to replace them with players that are better, rather than just a shiny toy that’ll look nice on the bench.

On top of their departures, there's at least half a dozen Thai lads that we should be letting go, as their contributions to the club just haven’t been enough to justify keeping them around. That said, I'm sure they’ve done wonders in terms of a marketing sense.

What your expectations for next year?

It’d be nice to mount a proper title charge, but the reality is… we’re not a club that’s run in a ‘normal’ sense, so it’s wise to go into a season with minimal expectations, and just hope for the best. It’d be great to make a cup final if possible, but it all depends on the moves we make during the off-season.

Please can share your opinions on Madam Pang 

I've got to be careful with what I say, in order to not get into any real trouble! 

Look, Pang’s a polarizing figure, and for obvious reasons. I appreciate the money that she's invested, and that she pays the bills on time, but that’s about it. It’s a bit humorous the level of ‘hate’ that she gets from opposition fans to be honest, especially when there are owners of other clubs that do very similar things to her in terms of self-publicity, but that’s Thai football at the end of the day. My advice is quite simple: take a step back. We all know that this advice would immediately be dismissed! 

I've always thought it better to ‘give a coach enough rope to hang himself’, so that when he is (inevitably) dismissed from his position… it’s justified. To handcuff someone by demanding certain team selections, and then punishing them when it fails… it’s mind boggling to say the least.

What have been your impressions of Chonburi this season? 

It’s been quite a rollercoaster of a season for Chonburi. I wasn’t that impressed (initially) when you signed Danilo, but it’s a signing that’s worked out quite well for the club. I'm a big fan of Amadou Ouattara, and Dennis can be a clinical striker too, but the rest of your import lads… they leave a little to be desired. Maybe I'm being harsh though!

The performance in the first-leg was impressive, but then certain things happened off-field (which I won’t go into), and then things fell apart on-field with the performances throughout the second-leg. The shift in performance (results-wise) from first-leg to second-leg for Chonburi is something that we see almost every season from at least one club, and it’s usually a fate that we suffer at Port.

Which of our players are you most wary of? 

I really rate Kritsada for obvious reasons, but it’s the young core (Songchai, Chatmongkol, and  Channarong) that should have the Chonburi fans excited. Fortunately for us, the young trio are all unavailable!

We’ll have to keep an eye on Kritsada, and try not to give him too much time on the ball. Amadou has the potential to tear his fullback to shreds if we allow him to get to top speed, whilst I can’t help but feel that Sumanya will pop up with something special if he features.

Which of your players will pose us the biggest threat? 

Hamilton and Worachit are the two danger men that should feature, whilst Suphanan and Negueba can also be major headaches for opposition defenders. Hamilton can score any type of goal, and he’s just a really awkward striker to mark it seems. You know Worachit’s qualities, so I won’t bother going in-depth, but he's surpassed my expectations since he arrived. Suphanan’s pace makes him unplayable at times, whilst Negueba is (in my opinion) quite underrated. I’ll admit I was a bit negative when he was signed, but he's a well-rounded player, and I'm more confident when he's in the XI.

What are your expectations for Sunday's match? 

I'm just hoping for 3-points to be honest. How we get them? Doesn’t worry me at all! It’s always a tough game against Chonburi (you’ve won the last 3?), so the players just need to show up ready to work.

Would you care to make a score prediction? 

2-1 to Port, though I’d happily take a mental game that ends 5-4!

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I think we've covered everything, but best of luck on Sunday!

Thai Port 1-2 Chonburi (28/10/12) - Match Report

TPL

Thai Port 1-2 Chonburi

PAT Stadium

Attendance: 2,007

Sunday 28th October, 2012

Match Report 

THAI PORT 1-2 CHONBURI

by Malky

Thiago Cunha netted twice as Chonburi won 2-1 on Thai Port's TPL swansong.

Both sides wasted early chances with Thiago knocking the ball into Wanlop's legs after being sent on his way by Jetsadakorn while Steven Robb missed a sitter with the goal gaping at his mercy.

Thai Port fell behind on 12 minutes when a long ball caught Termchai napping which allowed Thiago the easy task of stroking the ball past Wanlop.

Ten minutes later, another long ball from Chonburi was this time missed by Thongchai and as the left back tried to retrieve the situation, he fouled Thaigo in the box. It was a rather harsh award by the referee, but Thiago wasn't complaining as he coolly sent Wanlop the wrong way to make it 2-0.

However, the hosts began to find their feet with Sarawut fizzing an effort across the goal and Ri Myong Jun headed onto the post after a teasing cross from Robb.

Steven Robb then atoned for his earlier miss when he prodded home Watson's low cross on 45 minutes to give Port a glimmer of hope.

The clock whittled down slowly after the break with few chances for either side. Robb blasted a shot into Sinthaweechai's midriff while Ri Myong Jun's spin and shot in the box flew wide. The closest the Sharks came was when newly introduced sub, Paritas, fired over the bar from close in.

At the end of the game, there was a pitch invasion from the Klong Toei youngsters as they went in search of goodies from the players. Both sides now have about three months to prepare for next season. The pair might be in different divisions but the target of winning their respective leagues will be the same.  

Thai Port 1-0 Chonburi (7/12/11) - Away Days Photos: 2011

 TPL

Thai Port 1-0 Chonburi

PAT Stadium

Attendance: 2,215

Gate receipts : B123,120

Merchandise : B15,643

Wednesday 7th December, 2011

Thai Port 1-0 Chonburi (7/12/11) - Match Report: 2011

TPL

Thai Port 1-0 Chonburi

PAT Stadium

Attendance: 2,215

Gate receipts : B123,120

Merchandise : B15,643

Wednesday 7th December, 2011

MATCH REPORT

EKKABHUM ON TARGET AS PORT END CHONBURI'S TITLE HOPES

by Tor Chittinand

Thai Port FC stunned Chonburi FC 1-0 in the Thailand Premier League action yesterday to effectively end the Sharks' title hopes.

Ekkabhum Potharungroj scored the winner with 10 minutes to go as Chonburi remain second on 55 points _ 14 behind leaders PEA _ with six matches left.

Defending champions Muang Thong United are third on 55 points but the Kirins have played two games less than the leading duo.

At PAT stadium, Chonburi, led by veteran midfielder Therdsak Chaiman, dominated for long periods but could not send the ball past in-form goalkeeper Munze Ulrich who made several fine saves.

With only a few scoring chances, Port proved sharper when Ekkabhum headed the ball into Chonburi's net in the 80th minute.

Chonburi then threw everything at Port but the hosts defended well to get the three points.

THAI PORT 1-0 CHONBURI

by Malky

Thai Port moved into the top half of the TPL courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Chonburi. 

The 4pm kick off started in Khlong Toei with barely a few hundred spectators inside the PAT Stadium. If the game had been played on a weekend, I'm sure the crowd for the opening of the match would have been quadrupled.

The game though was a decent throughout as both teams had numerous chances.

The best effort of the first half came shortly before the interval when Pipob's header from a Therdsak cross was fantastically blocked by Munze with his right leg.

Shortly into the second half, the home side's keeper was called upon again to beat away a Highuchi shot from close range with his right arm.

As the game entered the final third, Chonburi seemed to lose impotence upfront as Thai Port began to press for a winner. The threat of Ekkapoom was evident all game, and with 10 minutes left on the clock, the wee man was at the near post to nod in a Mongkol freekick.

The rest of the game was most noticeable for Chonburi's keeper Sintaweechai attempting to play centre forward for the Sharks as they desperately searched for an equalizer.

Tonight was one of those games that could have gone either way. Had it been played earlier in the season when Chonburi were on fine form, or even when Thai Port were going through their wretched run under Thongchai when he first took over, then I'm sure Chonburi would have won this game. Today though, Thai Port played with the spirit that has seen them take 10 points out of the last 12.