Chonburi 3-2 Sukhothai (21/5/17) - Match Report: 2017

TPL

Chonburi 3-2 Sukhothai

Chonburi Stadium

Attendance: 3,795

Sunday 21st May, 2017

Match report

by Peter Reeves

A home match against one of the surprise packages of the season Sukothai. Surprise because they are languishing in the relegation places which surely is a false position given one or two decent players in their midst. That has been suggested all season so far, just a temporary blip, but they are still there, we are halfway through and they are now 6 points adrift of safety. Someone better wake up and quick.

 

Looking at the league table it should be a comfortable afternoon for the Sharks but it rarely works out that way. Most Thai teams are fragile to say the least, ask Muangthong, and it’s a league where anybody can beat anybody, and often do. Looking at the team sheet though with the likes of Baggio, Diouf and Anton around there’s no room for complacency.

 

The first minutes were uneventful until a break through the non-existent (again) Sharks defence allowed Diouf the chance to give the visitors the lead. You’d really think by now someone would have recognized the failings in this area but I suppose not. It is quite clear to me as just an observer of football, that the full backs just push up way too much and no one covers their position, thus leaving gaping holes everywhere. No discipline. No intelligence.

 

It didn’t take long for Chonburi to level things up. A free kick played in bounced through half a dozen players and was finally headed in. This is not even schoolboy football I’m afraid. Totally shambolic and if this is an example of Sukothai’s defensive capability then they can say hello to T2 for next season. My internet connection collapsed at this point for a few minutes and it re-joined me for the replay of the penalty that gave Chonburi the lead so I cannot comment on whether the referee made an almighty howler, but it was dispatched well.

 

Despite the threat of Baggio and Diouf, Chonburi were worth their lead, though you could see from the visitors approach play at times they have players that can play a bit. They just weren’t. Just before half time another Sharks effort rattled the bar emphasizing they really should probably have been further ahead.

 

The second half was more of the same. Chonburi looking like they were heading for the win but Sukothai still putting a few decent passes together. At times they looked better than Chonburi in this part of the game but it all broke down anywhere near goal. It seemed the game had been wrapped up when Nurul got in on the right side and his low cross was turned in by a defender. The Sharks though often feel sorry for opponents and like to give them a bit of encouragement by giving a goal away and so they did.

 

A decent effort from a visitor’s free kick hit the inside of the post and came back into a ruck of players. In amongst the seven or eight all in there you had those that just stood and watched, those that panicked and one who took an almighty swipe at it only to connect with his own player. The ball dropped nicely for Sukothai and 3-2. School caps on, everybody.

 

The visitors sensed an equalizer and some sustained pressure on the home goal in the last few minutes conjured up one up, but disallowed. Couldn’t see why. Replay showed it wasn’t offside and I couldn’t see any infringement, other than players making contact with each other in an effort to get to the ball. It finished 3-2 and in retrospect, it probably should have been a bit more. Chonburi shouldn’t have been relying on a disallowed goal to secure the points and should have finished the game off earlier.

 

Chonburi? Another three points, and points they deserved but one could hardly have called the performance inspiring or effective. As always just no defensive formation at all and apart from Nurul no real visible threat. I read a very good comment by Steve Darby, former coach of the Laos national side, who said ‘formations are just telephone numbers, if you haven’t the technical skills to execute them’. How true that is and how applicable to Chonburi and most of the others in this league. Perhaps that’s why Therdsak doesn’t bother. There’s no point. Having said that I saw Gary Stevens in his brief sojourn at Port at least organize his defence of very ordinary players so it at least resembled a football team. Improvements are possible.

 

Sukothai? Well in Baggio the best player on the park but a player who has forgotten his strengths and lost his way. Trying to do too much on his own, someone should remind him of exactly what he’s good at and then play him in a position where he can utilize his strengths.

 

I was able to get a few matches in this weekend, both here and in Europe and I know I will be criticized for making unfair comparisons but if Thailand is ever to become a reasonable footballing nation (not good, just reasonable) there have to be changes and some of those changes are in attitude. Attitude of players which at times is a disgrace and toughness, coupled with a bit of understanding, by officials.

 

To give you an example I watched Korat play Chiang Rai. There were quite a few incidents of both. Players running behind players and just tripping them (a Korat player did it 4 times but only one card). A Korat player who stamped on a Chiang Rai players Achilles from behind. Very dangerous. Weak or blind referee.

 

But the crowning glory was a player who got down the right side of Chiang Rai’s defence was tackled fairly and went probably 2 metres off the pitch and then crawled on all fours back on the pitch just to get the game stopped in case Chiang Rai broke away. Absolutely disgusting. His injury? He was clutching his wrist. I would suggest that other activities might have caused a sore wrist rather than any tackle.

 

Big changes are required, forgetting the technical and then tactical failings. That coupled with pictures of owners screaming at their coaches during the match sends out the message of what football is really all about here.

 

I suppose though at least one team didn’t tell another team to kick the ball out of play on 26 minutes so they could have some form of presentation to a retiring thug. Who has the power to make that happen? Well like Trump’s decision to sack the very man who was investigating him, it could only have come from the very top. A Russian.

 

Thailand has its own problems in football but it hasn’t sunk that low. Let’s hope it never does.

Bangkok Glass 3-0 Chonburi (17/5/17) - Match Report: 2017

TPL

Bangkok Glass 3-0 Chonburi

Leo Stadium

Attendance: 4,372

Wednesday 17th May, 2017

Match Report

By Tim Spear

It was clearly going to be one of those days, what with the rain and power cuts at work. Luckily the roads were clear and we arrived in good time to sample a range of food and beers from a well organised and professional set up.

 

This is always one of my favourite grounds due to the view from the stands and the great atmosphere. None of these characteristics were missing this evening.

 

Sometimes games hinge on one or two key decisions and perhaps this was the case here today. As for Bangkok Glass, they are a strong and well organised team, who have a clear system, utilising the wings and bringing the midfield player in from the deep. They pressed as a unit and kept their shape very well, with players dropping when required. This resulted in all three of their goals. They were well taken and at times deserved.

 

Chonburi, are the arch-typical Jekyll and Hyde team at the moment, lots of nice crisp passing between defence and midfield. We play balls along the ground and move fairly quickly. The difficulty arises when one of two things occur. Firstly the lack of any penetrative movement up front, and secondly if one of the protagonists is having an off day (as there appears to be a dearth of back up). This evening all of this occurred - and also Cellino effect (this is one of numbers) occurred this evening. It was #4. Thus 4 (Kroerkrit), 14 (Renan)  and 24 (Worachit) all were having off days, or perhaps should have been pulled. Our esteemed keeper, well what can be said? He was poor on one goal, got caught dallying outside the area and got sent off, ultimately resulting in the third.

 

Finally the main piece of the jigsaw that conspired against us was the man in black (well I saw RED on a number of occasions). This was one of the most blatant homers I have seen in a long long time. Bookings given to us, that were not even called fouls by Bangkok Glass; throw ins - some so unbelievable, and was our keeper the last man? Yet, when we were awarded a penalty no card - nothing at all.

 

This game was begging for someone with pace to turn the home defence, and thus onto the last bad news of the evening. This was hearing that Prince will be leaving (and as such will not be risked for injury) for Buriram Utd. I sincerely hope that he makes further progress since his arrival from Bang Bueng. He is one for the future.

 

Ultimately disappointed, but still another great atmosphere in a lovely stadium, that is testament to a team that I think I would support if I lived in Bangkok!

 

 

Match Report

By Peter Reeves

Normal service has been resumed.

 

Not knowing too much about the whys and wherefores of Thai football the first thing that leapt out last night was the stadium. Where did that come from? Very impressive, if virtually empty.

Always rather irrelevant to talk about team formations here in most cases but Glass seemed to be lining up with 3-4-3.  A good formation and attack minded. It does require a quality centre back to keep it all under control but gives you 4 in midfield and 3 up top.

 

Chonburi ‘seemed’ to be 4-3-3 which means they were already ‘outgunned’ in midfield but the opportunity they have is to get players down the flanks to stretch that back 3 and pull them out of position. The best way then to counter a 3-4-3 line up is to attack it especially from wide areas. Combination play in triangles down the flanks and angled balls from central into the spaces where full backs would normally be allowing wingers to run into the space. This can create space in the centre as defenders are pulled out of position. They had Nurul, could they make it work?

 

If the foundations in your house are weak the house falls down. If you have no defence get ready for collapse. I make no apologies for talking defence every week. Like it or not it is half of the game and can win you matches. It is an element of football here that is seemingly ignored by most.

 

As early as the first minute the Sharks were in chaos at the back and a terrible mix up almost presented Glass with a chance. In the third minute, a ball played through the back line and a Glass defender through on goal. Out comes Chanin like a whirling dervish, misses the ball but plants a ‘studs up’ kick on the attacker just outside the box. It was called offside but no one knew that as it happened. The hapless keeper was the last man, there was no attempt to play the ball. Red card, even if the player was offside. No card at all.

 

On 6 minutes once again he is flying out of his goal to clear a ball his defenders could have dealt with. He really hasn’t a clue and the foundations were as usual wobbling in the light breeze. As the match progressed it was getting no better. A break down the left where a defender is supposed to be and the attacker gets round the back and plays the ball into the centre of the box, where a Glass attacker put the kettle on and then stroked the ball in. Unmarked in the centre of the box. No challenge. No awareness at all by three Sharks players within 4 metres. They all just stood and watched. This is not acceptable.

 

I often sit and wonder what someone like the great Bill Shankly would have made of all this. Three defenders not attempting a challenge in the box? He’d have probably marched on the pitch and bashed their bloody heads together.

 

Glass relaxed and by the half way stage of the first 45 Chonburi were seeing a bit more of the ball, but it was ineffective and offered no threat. At the other end it was panic stations. Bangkok Glass did not look that good to me. A lot of misplaced passes in the build ups and for a team with alleged potential, rather disappointing. They were however worth there lead and on 35 a good chance was headed over.

 

On 38 the first real chance for Chonburi as a decent ball found Marques but his shot on the run from the edge of the box went over. At the other end though it was still a problem as a Glass attacker found himself free in the box but very poor control and the chance had gone. Didn’t have to wait long for another as again poor defending allowed a cross into the box and the header went past a flapping Chanin. 2-0.

 

Half time and I couldn’t see if Marques decided he would look sweet in green. After an early battering Chonburi had come into the game a little more but just lacked any threat at all. Only Nurul looked likely to do anything and he wasn’t seeing enough of the ball.

 

Sharks started the second half well and as early as 47 a header from a free kick went wide and on 52 a good shot tipped over by the Glass keeper. On 54 Chonburi hit the post when perhaps he should have scored. Sharks were pushing forward and putting pressure on and Glass looked far from comfortable at times and the Blues were gaining a bit of momentum but then down comes the red mist as Chanin charges out of his goal for another assault on a Glass attacker and this time off he goes. He didn’t need to be out there. Two defenders were around but oh no he decides to finish any possible chance of getting back into the match by reducing his team to 10 men.

 

So what will the replacement keeper be like? Well he wasn’t 2 foot 6 for a start and on 72 minutes made a good save at full stretch. It was only a temporary respite though as in the next attack he made another decent save but could only parry the ball out. The Sharks defenders did not react at all but the Glass attacker did. 3-0. On comes Mr Shankly again! On 75 another good chance for Glass but once again poor control by the attacker and the chance went.

 

On 76 a chance to reduce the deficit as Chonburi get a penalty. Marques weak shot was saved easily by the keeper and in extra time Nurul failed to convert from close in.

 

Bangkok Glass did not impress me really, considering their league position, so why are they where they are in the table? Well three reasons I think. Firstly they have a decent keeper who hardly put a foot wrong. Did nothing flashy but performed his tasks without histrionics and actually stayed somewhere near his goal. Second they have in Matt Smith, a good English defender who can pass the ball out but who organizes his back line, encourages, shouts and makes sure there is discipline. They also have a guy Campos, who looked dangerous up front. The rest quite ordinary but the foundations are in place. They don’t look like a team that will challenge for the top places but they won’t lose too many.

 

Chonburi? Well same old story isn’t it. Only Nurul looks like he’s a decent player and a threat and the man most seemed to think would make an impact this year, Prince, consistently on the bench. And Chanin? I’m afraid he just shouldn’t be there and is becoming a liability with his antics. I personally felt the team looked more secure when his replacement came on. You can’t paper over the cracks though.

 

In the 18 months I have been watching them, Therdsak has done nothing about the defence at all, in fact with the loss of Dos Santos it has deteriorated to an alarming degree. There are too many ‘ball watchers’ who just can’t be bothered to stay in the game and do not look like they are committed to ‘the team’. You can accept players not being particularly good if they are giving their all, but you cannot accept a lack of attitude and commitment.

 

I’m sorry to say it had not been good. After two matches I thoroughly enjoyed normal service has been resumed.

New! Close Season Ins & Outs: 2023

 A list of the players leaving and arriving at Chonburi FC over the close season.

INS

Ben Davis - from Port FC

Lee Chan-Dong - from Gwangju FC (South Korea)

Patrick Deyto - from Stallion Laguna

Phuket Fuengakorn - from Trang Utd

Lira Willian - from Kedah Darul Aman

Supawat Yokakul - from Samut Prakan City

Murilo de Freitas - from Chapecoense

Yannick Mbone - from Dunkerque

OUTS

Dennis Murillo - released

Faiq Bolkiah - released

Jesse Curran - released

Danilo Alves - released

Yoo Byungsoo - released

Renato Kelic - released

Diego Bardanca - released

Go Seul-ki - released

Sumanya Purisai - released

Aung Kaung Mann - to Uthai Thani FC (loan)

Chalermpong Kerdkaew - released

New! Chonburi FC Playing Statistics 2022/23 Season

Overall Record (all competitions)

P32 W13 D4 L15 F47 A41

League

P30 W13 D4 L13 F46 A38 Pts43

League (Home)

P15 W8 D2 L5 F25 A18 Pts26

League (Away)

P15 W5 D2 L8 F21 A20 Pts17

League position

6th

 

FA Cup

P1 W0 D0 L1 F1 A2

 

League Cup

P1 W0 D0 L1 F0 A1

  

Home (all competitions)

P15 W8 D2 L5 F25 A18 

Away (all competitions)

P17 W5 D2 L10 F22 A23

Biggest Win (all competitions)    

17/9/22 (TPL) Muang Thong Utd 1-5 Chonburi                                              

 

Biggest Defeat (all competitions)

11/2/23 (TPL) Prachuap 3-1 Chonburi

12/3/23 (TPL) Bangkok Utd 3-1 Chonburi

9/4/23 (TPL) Chonburi 1-3 Chiang Rai Utd

7/5/23 (TPL) Port 3-1 Chonburi

 

Longest Sequence Without A Defeat (all competitions)

6 matches 31/8/22 - 9/10/22 WWWWWW

Longest Sequence Without A Win (all competitions)

9 matches 11/2/23 - 9/4/23 LLLDLLLLL

 

Average Goals Scored Per Match (all competitions)

1.46

 

Average Goals Conceded Per Match (all competitions)

1.28

 

Leading Scorer (all competitions)

Danilo Alves = 14

 

Home Attendance Statistics

Highest

7,799 v Buriram Utd (27/8/22)

Lowest

3,484 v Sukhothai (29/10/22)

Total

69,795

Average

4,653

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