Christian Crusades Onwards

Matt Riley has posted a short clip ahead of the game away at Chiang Rai expressing serious concern - justified by the clip - for safety. Matt and I have witnessed safety issues before: overcrowded stands at TTM Samut Sakhon including gangways being blocked, being boxed in at Army United and the infamous Kor Royal incident so I know Matt wouldn’t express worry unless it was genuine. Stay safe, people.


Christian’s move to France is now official and makes me feel older, since I remember his debut at MTU. Chris leaves as he went in: a player with tremendous skill, (his goal in the AFC - see below - was my personal favourite), pace, dribbling, control and vision. His importance to the side was perhaps most obvious during our ultra-tight clash at home to Buriram last season when he looked our only attacking threat against the (then) solid Buriram midfield and back line.



What held him back was a rather childish petulant streak that would often cause him to expend as much effort and energy in trying to win penalties, argue with officials and get other players booked or sent off as he did on his own game. It was especially disappointing to see from a player with so much talent and strong religious convictions (he prays at the start of every game).

The move onwards has been on the cards for some time and with the reported fee of 10 million, benefits everyone. Chris has clearly not had his heart in it so far this season and perhaps a move to a country with a lower tolerance level to unsporting behaviour will bring the best out in him. At Muangthong we can only wish him all the best and say a big thank you for his service.

Transfer ins and outs

Although MTU's interest in Del Piero was released early as a little PR boost, the actual details of these and other ongoing negotiations have been a well-guarded secret even within the club.

At this stage as I have said all along, I don't believe Del Piero will sign and I say that with relief.

However Ronnarit has all but confirmed confirmed the signing of Edivaldo Rojas Hermoza, a Bolivian player out of Naval FC in Portugal.

Also inbound are North Korean Choe Kum-Sol and back-up goalkeeping in the shape of Amarin from Wuachon United.

Most likely out are Christian - that's been on the cards for some time - and Teerasil at the end of the season.


If this all stays as it stands now, I think we can commend MTU on excellent transfers.

2012 Squad Introduction

Jirawat mooinblack 66818053470

Muangthong United look set for a stronger season in 2012. Despite the close season being all too short, the management have manoeuvred very wisely in the transfer market and at the time of writing, only the promise of a new international defender was left to be fulfilled. Now then, I present a run down of the key players in Muangthong United's 2012 campaign, the year we take back that we lost.

In Thailand players can be known by "official" nickname (informal), first name (easier sometimes) or surname (professional football style). Often, I use my own affectionate nicknames for ease. The name in quotations is how I expect to refer to the player in reports.

Note: official squad numbers will be added ASAP. 

"Just to reconfirm, if the contract ends early......"

Slaviša Jokanović  -  Head Coach, "Solvva"
The Serbian comes with a pedigree and experience that promises much. It almost goes without saying that all he needs is to be left alone to get on with his work.
Most likely to: Get a sore throat from cheering his team's goals, and a sore tongue from biting it.



Key player: Kawin Thamasatchanan - GK "Kawin"

"The exit's that way Mister De Gea"

22 year old Kawin may be barely past Kindergarten by goalkeeper standards, yet I still have a hunch this season could be crucial in determining his long term career success.

Injury held him back in 2011 and although he returned to full fitness well before mid-season, his form was hindered by the boardroom wrangles and then the rule of Robbie that the whole team suffered from.

Perhaps his confidence took a hit but if anyone had forgotten about his potential, they certainly remembered after his colossal display in the cup final.

In my opinion this all sets Kawin back at square one - a young goalie with huge potential that needs to be managed carefully by Muangthong. Rene suggested he take a move to a bigger Asian league such as Japan for his next step but even if the big move to England does happen, he might just cope OK. Not only is he highly professional in his training but he's also humble and sensible. This is a guy who still turns up in flip flops to watch Rajpracha FC with his mum, smiling shyly when fans ask him for a photo.

In summary, a performance akin to the 2010 season is distinctly possible this season, fate allowing. How this remarkably precocious 'keeper deals with the inevitable approaches that come his way will be life changing. Yes, he's that good, he could be the elusive one.
Most likely to: Make the guys cheer, the girls swoon and have everyone chanting his name after another fingertip save.

Reserve goalies
With Weera on loan at TOT and  Witsanusak Kaewruang still out somewhere, our two reserve goalies are totally unknown quantities right now. I believe their names are Weerayut Makmoon and Suttichoke Chaikan.  More information to come when available.
Most likely to: Have this blogger and ATF asking each other: "Which one is this guy again? "



Weerawut  Kayem - Left back "Kayem"
Teenage left back with pace and professionalism who showed his face in 2010 and then came on in leaps and bounds last season. This year he should look for consistency. A chance to really establish his name as a long term MTU player beckons.
Most likely to: Make older fans feel tired simply by seeing how much he can run

Ri Kwang Chon - Centre back "Ri Kwang" 
Details here.

Panupong Wongsa - Centre back "Panupong"
Like so many Muangthong players, 2011 can be summed up as "Good, but just not as good as 2010" for southern-born Panupong. A return to stability along with some quality cover should see a restitution of form this time around. More battles with the hungry young attacking players at Buriram United await.
Most likely to: Pick up some more MOTM awards on the blog.

Captain Nattaporn and his daughter

Key player: Nattaporn Pannarit - Centre back and captain "Nattaporn, Captain Nat"
Aged thirty, a veteran by Thai standards, Captain Nattaporn was my defender of choice last season for his bravery, positioning and commitment to the cause. Under Fowler however, his form dropped considerably, something he noticed himself when it started to come back. A return to full form is vital for this season as another drop might spell the end of his career at top level. I've got no doubt he'll come good again though, he's got heart.
Most likely to: Get that bruising last second goal-line clearance.



Arthit Daosawang - Right back, "Arthit"
Almost a character clone of Kayem, but at right back. Arthit will be looking to build consistency on top of the foundations of potential he showed last season. We still need cover down both flanks for these teenage players, though.
Most likely to: Play a great game of football, then go home and play a great game of 'Call of Duty' online.


Todsapol Lated - Centre back, "Todd"
Snapped up from cash-strapped Thai Port last season, probably for a fire sale fee. Thai Port fans rate him highly but inside whispers have suggested consistency might be an issue.

Super Mario squashes another one

Most likely to: Get love from both Thai Port and MTU fans after we play them.




Key player:  Mario Djurovski - Midfield, "Super Mario"
Another incoming foreigner from close-season that comes highly rated. Early impressions are of a player that likes to play steady, weighted passes on the floor. If he can adjust quickly enough to the Thai game and the pitch conditions that come with it, a player of this type might make all the difference in our final league position.
Most likely to: Be a big hit with home fans.



Datsakorn Thonglao - Centre midfield, "Datsakorn, Dat Le Tiss"
The "Le Tissier" of 2010 found wonder goals and consistency (that word again) far harder to come by last time around. But it's not just flashy stuff that counts with the former Tero man, he can get stuck in, too. The quality is still there and perhaps the arrival of a player that, a first glance, looks so similar in style (Barakat) will push him to raise his game.
Most likely to: Get muddy shorts in the rainy season, thanks to all those slide-tackles.

Now that blogger's got no excuse!

Dagno Siaka - Attacking midfield/deep midfield "Dagno, Danny-o, Kone"
Long term member of the squad and one of those players you always want on your side. Dagno is versatile, quick and strong and could walk in to almost any first team in Thailand.
Most likely to: Take penalties, and keep the new hairstyle to stop me confusing him with Kone again. (I hope!).



Nattarid Thammarossopon - Centre midfield, "Natt"
Young player signed from BEC Tero, shows massive promise.
Most likely to: Win a MOTM award then get taken out to Swensens by his mum as reward.


Adnan Barakat - Centre midfield, "Adnan"
Signed from FC Baku, Barakat comes highly rated and his youtube highlights suggest he might be a set-piece demon. Could prove a real challenge to Datsakorn.
Most likely to: Score a great free kick then wai the fans.





Jakkaphan Pornsai - Wing, attacking midfield, "Pornsai"
Hotly anticipated player signed from Police before 2011 that only showed flashes of his promise last time around Will need to work hard this season. My gut feeling says he won't be with us for more than half a season.
Most likely to: Run down the line, cut inside and lay the low cross.



Ekapoom Potharungroj - Winger, "Ekapoom"
As with Todsapol, well-rated by Port fans but needs to earn his place.

You talkin' to me? I don't see nobody else....

Pitchipong Choechieu - Midfield, "Pitchipong"
We're looking a little top-heavy on midfielders aren't we? We could guess Pitchipong is the man to make way, but then every time I write him off, he comes back more dedicated and better than ever.
Most likely to: Pop up when you need him.


Piyapol Buntao - Attacking midfielder, "Buntao"
A squad player for the last couple of seasons that has started to look more and more deserving of a place in the first team. Seems to raise his game for the bigger matches. Definitely good to have on the bench, at least.
Most likely to: Have everyone forget about him, come off the bench and score a cracker.

Christian be praised!

Key player: Christian Kaokao - Winger, forward, "Chris, Christian"
The real bonus of the 2012, given how much interest has been shown in him lately and how resigned many staff were to losing him. His remarkable ability was subdued by the sheer physical pressure of so much travel and playing time over the last two seasons and for that reason, that single extra week of rest we've been given before opening day might just make a big difference. Still a highly talented dribbler and finisher that is held back by his mental approach to the game.
Most likely to: Just like last season - beat three guys, go for a penalty, realise he won't get it, get up, beat them all again and score a great goal.



Kone Muhammed - Forward, "Kone, Dagno"
The prodigal son of 2012? As if being re-signed from TOT - where he went due to his failed fitness test in Belgium - wasn't respite enough, Kone received full support from MTU staff during some confusion with the police over a drugs test in pre-season. Now's his chance to pay back the club by providing solid back up to Chris and Teerasil. The latter should especially appreciate the extra muscle up front, as he was so often isolated and hustled off the ball in 2011. He's not just about the brawn though, a fully fit Kone sure as heck knows how to find the net himself, too.
Most likely to: Scare opposition defenders.

Choe Kum-Chol - Striker "Choe Kum"
Details here.

Teerasil Dangda - Striker, "Teerasil"
Nothing has changed. This guy is still pure class.
Most likely to: Show the great technique he has.



Other players that might play a role:
Piyachart - full back, loaned to BEC Tero all last season.
Mongkol Namnuad - midfielder signed from Thai Port.
Diarra Ali - defender out on loan to Suphanburi because of the new foreign players rule. Can be recalled any time.
Bobouacar Issofou - winger, my "will he or won't he?" player of 2011, now loaned out and in a similar conundrum to Ali.
Santhi Chaiyaphruk - utility player, signed from Pattaya and loaned out midway through last season.

******


Photo credits:  Jirawat mooinblack 66818053470  except Kawin (affsuzukicup.com) and Nattaporn (shutterstock.com)

Training snaps

Before a ball has been kicked in the TPL 2012, fixtures have been changed. The home game with Tero is now set for 18/3/12. EDIT: OS now says 17th!

Credit: Jirawat mooinblack  66818053470

Kawin

Christian (yes he's back!)

Reserve goalie 2

Reserve goalie 1

Piggy backs!

Datsakorn

Super Mario

L to R - Panupong, Teerasil, Santhi(?)

Updates on Christian

I've received a tip off (thanks to that person) that Christian Yao Koukou is now on trial at Braga FC, who are reported to be impressed with the young winger. I also understand Robert Procurer has played a key role in bringing Chris to the Mediterranean club.The deal is not yet completed but Chris' future does appear to be in the west and we must wish him well, and hope that experience of the European game will improve his mental approach and make him an even better player.

This means the paciest player with or without the ball at MTU  has now gone the same way as Yaya and unless the latter returns our way, we now have another hole to fill. The interest around Teerasil only compounds the urgency we should now feel in signing at least one attacking player and a centre back.

We can only hope the scouts are busy and the management will live up to their big spending promises. They always have in the past.

Christian trials

Chris is on trial in Russia. If he impresses - which he certainly should at that level - MTU should expect to receive about twenty million.

Chris is one of at least three players that we should love enough to let go because they're that good, they deserve to play in Europe. I just hope that we spend the money wisely. Find another Christian, Kawin, Yaya or Terrasil. Not another Fowler, Guti or Hernandez.

MTU 1 Sriracha 1

A special dispatched report for Robbie Fowler who was in England for his team's clash with Sriracha, in which MTU were obligated to play a full strength, full-effort side due to Sriracha's relegation battle.

Before the game, Adnan Barakat (I think one of the scouts found him) was shown to the crowd. Seems like a good guy, hope you get to meet him sometime.

Sriracha had the better of the first half and came close several times (notably Dos Santos) but could not finish.

In the second half the visitors took the lead through Dudu but the joy was short-lived as Christian equalised soon after. The game thus ended one-all which condemned Sriracha to relegation.

Your boys did good but we need to get organised and ready for next season. Maybe you can send a few tips from India.

2012 budgets

It's debatable how much value to place on either attendance figures or team budgets in Thai football, as both seem to be simply speculation on behalf of the clubs themselves.

It's also unclear exactly what constitutes an official budget expense. In 2011 I'd wager our salary expenses dwarfed that of any other club but was that part of our 90M budget? It's equally possible we paid out more in transfer fees than any other team but we failed to win a trophy for the first time in years. It's just goes to show that a high budget helps a heck of a lot but that alone isn't enough to guarantee success.

In any case, MTU's budget has been announced as in excess of 100M for this season. Buriram United and BEC Tero announced the same bracket. BEC Tero are planning big things this year and a well known figure in Thai football could link up with them soon.

I've mentioned a couple of times that Chonburi could fall behind in the trophy race and their budget for 2012 is set at 80M. Like I said though, money isn't everything. BG have declared their budget at a slightly disappointing 60M. Troubled Thai Port have set the purse at 40M. It would be very sad to see TP drop out of the TPL as they are a club with real character and great support.

*****************
With the new foreigners rule set out by the TFA, perhaps the blow of Zesh's departure has been lessened a little.

Our first team foreigners now are:
Christian - African (a must-keep)
Robbie - European
Issaoufao - African
Dagno - African (must-keep)
Adan Barakat - European
Ali Diarra - African

That gives us a total of six with no Asians that I can think of. At least one player has to go, perhaps one more if a certain famous European player joins us. The obvious option to go is Fowler, who could (and should) retire as a player. The second choice is harder but the most likely option would be Bobocar Issafaou who is still officially out on loan but did show signs of promise towards the end of his stint with us this season.

The 2011 awards

Well yes, I could make your hangover worse by talking about the loss at Buriram yesterday in the last minute of the game. I could dampen the cheer by pointing out several players apologising for "poor form" on the OS (not the people that should be apologising, mind you) but I'd rather wish everyone a Happy New Year and move on to more positive things.

So after you've seen Robbie's message in the Twitter feed it's time for the Thunderdome Blog's 2011 awards! These awards are by far the least prestigious in football and attract absolutely no stars and cameramen every year. Moreover, the prize for each award is a cup of tea (Twinings or Lipton) awarded to the player as soon as they turn up at my home. The current number of acceptances stands at zero, as of 1/1/2012.

The first award is....

Newcomer of the year

Kayem - great potential

This is a toughie because a lot of new faces arrived in 2011 but the performances were very mixed. Yet despite the setbacks of the year some very encouraging new boys have come through. In the full back slots two very promising baby-faced players made a name for themselves. On the right we had Arthit and on the left we have our winner, Weerawut Kayem. He made his debut last year but really shone this season by holding his own in the big game against PEA at home, proving he had the mental skill as well as the physical. He was recently injured but has now returned. Like Kawin, he seems friendly and humble and that should make for an excellent career.




Goalie or Defender of the year

Nattaporn - not scared of the trenches

Champions should always have quality and depth in this area and MTU are no different. Last year we had Asia's best goalie, Jetsada, Panupong and Nattaporn. This year Zesh took time to adjust but has comfortably filled the void left by the self-destructing Jetsada and the back line is as strong as ever. The recent setbacks have possibly dented the confidence of young Kawin and his form has dipped but Manchester United don't scout players without good reason, he's brilliant and he'll be back to form soon.

What's been really pleasing about this season is the way winner Nattaporn Pannarit stepped up to the plate and took over the captain's armband. Every challenge, every header and every clearance has been battled for by this guy and his performances early in the season were the only thing that's stopped us getting trounced even more often. He's shown real character and deserves the award.


Midfielder of the year

Dagno-catch him if you can 

It's not been a great season for our midfielders. Some new signings didn't fit in as well as they hoped - perhaps they haven't been given enough of a chance - and some players didn't have as good as season as last year 2010. But still there have been some great showings. Piyapol Buntao is looking more consistent, Pitchipong battles back every time he looks to be fading away and Datsakorn still hit a few goals. But this decision is fairly easy: Dagno Siaka is one of the few players who has looked as good as last season. His long legs defy his deft first touch and turn of pace and the way he drifts between midfield and attack pulls opposition players out of position, creating openings for his team-mates. He must be hell to mark.


Attacker of the year:

Christian Koukou is the only choice here, apart from....

(drumroll).......The 2011 Player of the year.....

Remember that goal Vs Oz?

"The best striker in Thailand" is how one of my students described him, and he was right. If the interest around Teerasil "Mui" Dangda ends up in a transfer, then we must either sign a European striker in his prime or accept we are not title challengers anymore, because there is nobody in Thailand that is as two-footed, quick-thinking, able with his back to goal, composed, committed or excellent at finishing as this guy. Before this season's home game with Saraburi, a former MTU coach told me we'd struggle if Mui got injured. Sure enough, he got injured and our form plummeted. It's not coincidence. Teerasil Dangda is class to the point where I feel guilty for paying a paltry sum of  baht to watch him ply his trade, which brings me on to.....


Goal of the year:

Plenty of choice, but Teerasil's goal at home to Thai Port takes it because it came from a corner......by Thai Port, with a brilliant break and perfect through-ball by Christian before "Mui" shows his usual class. Watch the magic at work.




Game of the year:
MTU 9 Samut Prakan United 0
It's not been a year of demolition derbies like last season but such goal-fests could never last forever. There's still been plenty to cheer about at home though, and a nine goal thrashing, even against a lower league team, was still very satisfying to watch.

Fowler's Record: P2 W2

******
Congratulations to a student of mine who correctly predicted the score and the first goalscorer. This report from www.bangkokpost.com
*****************

Robbie Fowler grabbed his first goal for Muang Thong United yesterday as they beat Chiang Rai United 4-1 in the Thailand Premier League at the Yamaha stadium.

Robbie Fowler celebrates scoring Muang Thong’s opening goal against Chiang Rai United. PAWAT LAOPAISARNTAKSIN

The Liverpool FC legend had yet to get off the mark in almost three months of service for Muang Thong but he finally showed his old killer instincts are still intact to help close the gap on league leaders Buriram PEA to six points.

Fowler looked bright and sharp throughout the contest and gave the Kirins a 1-0 first half lead with an unmarked header.

Ten minutes after the interval, Christian Kouakou doubled the lead from close range as Muang Thong began to take control. They remained the better side and converted a further chance through Dagno Siaka with 10 minutes to go before Chiang Rai United grabbed one back thanks to Edvaldo Pereira.

He was initially fouled in the penalty area but saw his penalty saved by Kawin Thammasatchanan but the Kirins keeper could do nothing as Edvaldo swept in the rebound.

However, Muang Thong were not finished there as Dagno then claimed his second of the game to cap off an impressive afternoon.

Muangthong United 0 Osotspa Saraburi M150 0 - report

verydemotivational.files.wordpress.com

Omens aplenty before this one, a former MTU coach mentioning that we could look considerably weaker without Teerasil - who turned out to be suspended for this game - a short but phenomenal downpour that rendered our 10 million baht drainage system as useless as ever and delayed kick off by one hour. Of course, a wet pitch can be dangerous, as it punishes the body more. Two of our squad had little or no experience on such surfaces...

Kawin (GK), Thiemba (RB), Diarra (CB), Zesh (CB), Kayem (LB), Datsakorn (MD), Dagno (MD), Arromsawa (MD), Jakkaphan (LW), Chris (RW), Fowler (ST).

Sure enough, the surface took its toll on Zesh and he went off injured around the 25 minute mark, replaced by Adisak, as Siaka dropped back to defence. (That now marks all three of our regular centre backs off the “fit and available" list. )Nawapol became a second casualty shortly after, to be replaced by Pitchipong.

thaileagueonline.com

Whenever there's a downpour, the left side of the pitch - from the view of a North Stand fan -  becomes  little more than a pond. That makes passing very awkward and naturally favours the visiting team. Today was no different. MTU’s best chance was a cheeky free kick by Fowler that the goalie palmed away.

By the second half things had eased up and more chances came MTU’s way, mainly thanks to Christian. A fantastic opportunity came Fowler’s way courtesy of his African team-mate, but somehow it went wide (see the video below at the 1:17 mark). The rest of the game was a story of both sides working hard, MTU creating more but looking unusually blunt without Teerasil or even Ahnon, who did appear late on.

So two points dropped and two more players on the injury list. On the bright side, most of the team worked very hard, Diarra looks capable in defence and Zesh has confirmed there is no tear in his leg. It will be interesting to see who gets selected for Chonburi in TLC in midweek and then the fake local derby with TOT next week.

Muangthong United 4 Al Alahad 0 - report

Rapture, rain and really, really bad traffic. What do these things all have in common? They all tried to stop Muangthong fans turning out in force and all failed miserably.

Despite press reports suggesting injury worries for the champions, the line up was more or less full strength: Kawin (GK), Kayem (LB), Panupong (CB), Zesh (CB),Thiemba (RB),  Pitchipong (MD), Datsakorn (MD), Siaka (MD), Narrapol  Arrmomsawa  (MD), Teerasi (ST), Christian (FW),

The first half was one way traffic. I wouldn't go so far as to say we put their goal under siege because Alahad's number seven did occasionally attack for the visitors, but there was no doubting our dominance. Chris in particular had the Lebanese defence in shreds and forced the visiting goalie into at least five saves in the first half alone. It really looked a matter of time but the goal wouldn't come. Surely we couldn't get sucker-punched?

In the second half we attacked the n-zone goal and after a goal by Chris that was (rightly) disallowed for offside, Teerasil got the breakthrough with a goal inside the box past the blindsided 'keeper.The relief was immense, but relief turned to outright jubilation when Arromsowa hit a low drive from the right to the goalie's (opposite) right to double the lead to 2-0. Christian grabbed the third goal and put the ball under his shirt, apparently telling us he was pregnant. Hey, if you score great goals then you can get pregnant every week as far as I'm concerned.

By now it was what I call: "party football". The match was over, everyone knew it and the home side started enjoying the game. A familiar theme last season, less so this time around. Anyway, the final moment of joy came from another Datsakorn "Le Tissier" Thonglao moment when he curled in a free kick from outside the box to make it four. There was only one threat to our clean sheet after that but Kawin rushed out to stop the striker breaking through. Game over. It could have been even more but we'll take this very happily, thanks.

Overall, an excellent team performance. Everyone looked fit and sharp even on the wet surface and it's surely no coincidence that Chris was back to his best with Teerasil returning alongside him. A clean sheet was delivered by the back line and the midfield opened the channels up superbly. However, with great respect to our hard-working and sporting opponents, they appeared no stronger than any of the group stage teams and I'm a little surprised they got this far. Now it's just the big boys left, mostly Arabic teams who gave us such tough games last year and make away fixtures so challenging. We have to go better than last year and take that trophy home. We're more than good enough to do it.


Man of the Match - Christrian Kouakou constantly terrified the visitors' defence with his footwork and zig-zag runs into the box.

Image credits: Jirawat Srikong

MTU 1 BEC Tero 0 - photos

With thanks to JoEisM ณ เมืองทอง at mtufc.net. The caption on the banner in the final image reads: "We trust you (God of Thai football)"

Muangthong United 4 Tampines Rovers 0 - report

As is customary with AFC games, the two ends are busier than the two side stands. The price increase for AFC tickets is a lot for some people, but the support is as great as ever.

Even a broken clock is right twice a day and it turns out I actually called a correct prediction in my preview. Calisto rests a few players including Teerasil. The team is Kawin (GK), Kayem (LB), Zesh (CB), Nattaporn (CB, capt), Bonmatoon (RB), Datsakorn (MD), Siaka (MD), Pitchipong (MD), Jakkaphan (MD), Christian (FW), Ahnon (ST)

The first half has very little of note, which is just as well because I hardly get to see any of it. My son has decided to take revenge for my refusal to buy him another MTU flag by barraging me with non stop questions.
“Dad, did Kawin wave to me again today?”
“Of course he did, son”
“Dad, are they the Singaporean team in blue shirts?”
“Of course they are, son."
“Dad, could their forwards hit the broad side of a barn?“”
“Of course they couldn’t, son.”

I jest of course, Tampines are a good side from a well-run league but it's typical that in group stage games, teams never look likely to score at the Thunderdome. It really does epitomise our difference in home and away form that we are dominating possession when not playing all that well at home  yet were lucky to escape with a point at Tampines’ ground.

There’s more annoyance, Mr Omar, who claims to be in Canada but sounds distinctly African, calls me and explains he has a private jet with a consignment worth ten million dollars that he wants to send to me. Mr Omar is describing the dimensions of the consignment and I’m waiting to ask if those dimensions are mathematically compatible with insertion into his anatomy when Pitchipong cracks the crossbar and the noise of the crowd drowns out Omar’s response to my question. I’ll never know if it would’ve fitted or not.

The first half fizzles out. We had more play but it was scrappy overall.

The second half is a different affair, though. Early on, Christian gets a deep through ball almost inside the Tampines’ area. As I recall, he had a defender closing in on both sides and looked to have over-run the ball, but this is Christian and his long legs grab that extra inch and touch the ball over the goalie. 1-0

siamsport.co.th

Soon after, Ahnon scores a short-range finish to effectively end the game. I was pleased, but I remember Ahnon scoring a similar effort against Hanoi, and it didn’t set him off on a goal run.

By now the game is really opening up and I’m enjoying it, so I’m a bit annoyed when Omar calls me again and says - surprise, surprise - he needs someone to forward him four hundred quid in fees before he can fly the consignment to me. I tell him I’m not interested and he should contact Fratton Park.  Thanks to whoever set me up with Mister Omar, it’s almost as funny as the time someone (thai-fussball.de must top the suspect list) signed me up to a German gay porn site that sent daily pictures.

The last thing Mr. Omar heard is my cheering as Jakkaphan Pornsai hit goal number three with a neat diagonal finish. Jakkapahan hasn’t quite made the impact I’d hoped for so far this season. I thought he was a winger but he seems to drift from right midfield to centre then back again and struggle to make his mark. But today he’s really showing what he can do and I hope it will spark a good run of form.The same goes for Ahnon who rounds off a great second half with a real poacher’s goal as he lined up at the edge of the box and puts a low shot to the goalie’s right side. Now that’s a goal from a poacher who’s feeling confident, that’s a goal that can set a striker off on a purple patch.

We threaten more but it ends soon after. Tampines played in good spirits and I wish them all the best for the next round. Singapore is a great place with a very professional setup in its league.

This really was the proverbial game of two halves. The first half was the MTU of 5-1 defeats this season, knowing what they can do but looking hesitant, just struggling to hit the gas. The second half was the other side of MTU, the one that knows they can still produce the form of last season when they get the tiniest rub of the  green. I can’t put my figure on what’s making the difference, but I’m sure that the form of Ahnon and Pornsai can make a huge change. Also notable was the solid back line again, which is always the first step to rebuilding any team. In Zesh, Nattaporn and Panupong we have a trio that can rotate with ease.

So in to the next round we go, opponents as yet unknown, but we can feel confident. The league title may be too far away this season but we can still look towards a good AFC run. And if the trophy gets flown in like it did last season, at least we know Mr Omar and his private aircraft are available.

*******

I’m hoping for two player interviews in the near future. Stay tuned.
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Muangthong United 0 Buriram PEA 0 - report

This match report has a password. Anyone who wants to read it and doesn't know the password, just drop me a line - email, PM, telephone or whatever. Don't worry I won't be making a habit of this Inspector Gadget type stuff.

read the match report

Muangthong United 4 Hanoi T&T 0 - Report

Dead

Not dead

Remember this? It was our first home game last season, an AFC group game following our ACL exit. The ground was undergoing extensive work, we had a new coach, new shirts were flying off the shelves in the club shop, we were aware of our poor pre-season form and how hard our rivals were working to take away our TPL title.

That story had a happy ending and the similarities with this year should be obvious, but this season is only going to be harder. Managerial turmoil - Henrique Calisto stated yesterday he will manage Muangthong after resigning as Vietnam coach - has not helped and Chonburi, BG and PEA are only more determined and experienced this year. In short, we really needed to prove a point today.

The line up had a few new faces: Kawin (GK), Kayem (LB), Athit (RB), Zesh (CB), Nattaporn (CB, capt), Datsakorn (MD), Jakkaphan (MD), Siaka (AM), Christian (Wing), Teerasil (Fw), Ahnon (St)

A few pointers for this first game. The Thais pronounce Sangsanoi's first name: "Ah-non" so I will spell it that way to avoid calling him: "Anon". Kayem and Athit are products of the youth team. Kawin sports a longer, fuzzier haircut but remains a favourite with female fans. There is no sign of Coulibly Abdoul, has he gone the way of Ibrahim; a mysterious, quick and quiet transfer?

Those thoughts fade quickly because within minutes of kick off we're all feeling good. It's obvious that Robert has been true to his word and his positive influence is clear to see. The team are back to their best - playing the ball down the flanks, moving for each other and looking fresh.

Long term readers may notice that whenever I'm talking about positive or poor performances, I'll always discuss our wide play or lack thereof. Of course that's not the be-all and end-all but it seems to be a symptom of the team's mind state. When they are playing with confidence and thinking clearly, Christian and co. will move down the wings and take people on, when they're tired or pressured, they use less width and take a direct approach.

For a while the game is even but Hanoi clearly lack attacking prowess and Kawin has little to do in the first half. But MTU - attacking our goal in the North Stand - are causing trouble with Jakkaphan looking especially menacing. Before long, Chris whips in a cross that falls to Jak, he fakes a shot then beats his man and shoots. The Hanoi goalie saves but there's a double rebound before Teerasil puts it home. 1-0.It's really starting to look like the side of old but the rest of the first half fizzles out.

The second half is a different story though. Some excellent footwork from Christian with a great finish makes it 2-0 early on. Chris had a great game today and could have notched a hat trick. I do wish he wouldn't go down so easily sometimes as a player of his ability is better off staying on his feet as much as he can.

Not long after Chris' gem, Ahnon opens his MTU account with his first goal from short range. 3-0.  By now it's all over and although Hanoi still made an effort, they really look like they couldn't score in a ten hour game and Kawin only had two tough saves to make against the Vietnamese champs all game.

Three subs made an appearance - Pitchipong, Santi and Paitoon. Pitchipong was especially pleasing as no less than three times he looked up and sprayed an excellent pass from the centre to the wing. It really epitomised what Robert, the fans and the team needed. It was the final proof that we were back.

Before the end, Teerasil added one more to make the final score 4-0. If the guys had more match practice under their belts, it could have been twice as many.

Let's be clear - the best thing about today was not a solid win against a distinctly average looking side, it was the way we did it. I'd say we are about ten or twenty percent away from being the team we were early last season when a lot of sides got demolished at the Thunderdome. Christian, Kawin, Nattaporn and Pitchipong all looked at the top of their game. Jakkaphan and Ahnon look like good acquisitions - better than the players they replaced - though I thought Jak looked better when he moved to the wing. Teerasil is not yet 100% but still scored twice and Dagno looks like he's still getting his sharpness back. Zesh looked good, too. The two kids at left and right back both looked very impressive and will only get better.

After a similar performance last season I stated correctly that no team in Thailand would better us. I can't say that this year but I can say that if we can keep up this tempo - and we have more rest time between games this season -then anyone wanting to win our title is going to have a heck of job doing it. Rumours of our demise have been greatly exaggerated.

Chonburi 2 Muangthong United 1 - Kor Royal Cup report

Don't panic! Don't panic!

Erratum first - the season ticket prices I quoted recently are only applicable to the VIP section of the West Stand. The North and South stands will cost 1,500 bt this season. Last season it was 1,200, so after allowing for the two extra games, the increase is paltry. That price includes the gift voucher and club shop discount.

That news came to me during the n-zone meeting before today's game. Most of the time I had so little clue what was going on that the speaker could have been explaining that I was Ian Dowie's love child and I'd just sit there and nod. The only other news I understood was that the n-zone have started a voluntary registration scheme to support group activities and prevent hooliganism. Presumably we're banking on hooligans being dumb enough to register themselves voluntarily.

To the stadium and it must be noted that the turnout was poor. Chonburi's much-vaunted away support was about half of what it was for the FA Cup final and the Thai Port contingent could've been out-sung and outnumbered by UB40. MTU bought about 60-70% of the FA Cup numbers.

Today's line up was - Weera (GK), Pakasit (RB), Panupong (CB), Nattaporn (CB, Capt), Rehman (LB), Datsakorn (MD), Issouafou (LM), Diarra (DM), Dagno (DM/MD), Christian (RM), Teerasil (ST).

Notice the number of high-profile newcomers excluded from the starting line up. However Rehman became the first European player to better Berkant Gotken's grand total playing time of exactly zero hours, zero minutes and zero milliseconds.

The first half was very similar to the cup final. Chonburi looked the better side without doing much of note and we had the occasional weak break but little more. It was a very scrappy affair to be honest. To be fair, I've had more dire evenings this month but then again, they did involve unblocking the toilet in my bathroom.

The only real point of interest - apart from Chonburi hitting the corner upright - was that I've already found this season's replacement for the Jakkaphan Keawprom "Is he a disaster or future master?" award and this year it's Issoufou Boubacar Garba. This guy needs serious time on the training ground to time his runs, know when to lay the ball off and when to go for himself. Right now he's got the athleticism but little else.

At half time a large chant of "Worawi ork bai!" came up from MTU fans.

The second half saw a notable improvement with Teerasil back to his best and Abdoul starting to find his rhythm in front of the back line. Rehman also started venturing out of his half more often. As we pushed forward, the Sharks hit in a rebound effort - at least that's how I saw it from the other end - past Weera.

Incensed, Christian found his fire and Anon came on to join him as the attack became three-pronged. We pushed closer and Chonburi survived two low crosses across the six yard box before the jammy dodgers hit us on the break with a low shot that swept under Weera, who must have been having flashbacks of his time in the defensive black hole that was Bangkok United.

Now really galvanised, MTU entered Jakkphan Pornsai into the fray and we really did look ready to go for it in the 3 minutes of injury time. A high cross just flew over Christian's head but moments later he chased a direct through-ball and got the last touch to score before he grabbed the ball and ran it back. Just moments later, Zesh was lining up a finisher before a last ditch clearance rescued Chonburi. The whistle went shortly after.

It's important not to read too much into this result. Chonburi are a well-drilled side that made few changes in close season. MTU on the other hand brought in several new faces and rested the higher-rated of those players today. Of those that played, it was clear that Weera is fine, Rehman needs time to settle and, surprisingly, looked better going forward than defending and Issoufaou needs more time in training before he gets anywhere near the first team. Apart from playing Dagno so deep, I had no real gripes with the new coach's tactics.

I understand Reene's conclusion to the game was similar to my own - we have a group of skilled individual players who need to gel together as quickly as they can. I really felt that Carlos used today's match as a friendly, hence his leaving Anon, Toth, Pornsai and Kallio out of the starting line. That's forgivable given our (neccesary) very slow pre-season campaign but now the time for experiments is over.

I recall last season's Kor Royal Cup being a similarly scrappy occasion before the ruckus started and I didn't worry too much then, either. In fact I drew no conclusions until the first ACL game a fortnight later. Let's hope it's the same old tale this year.

Man of the Match: Teerasil Dangda. Fantastic footwork from the front man held up the action so many times to bring his team mates into the attack.