Dateline 6^th December 2015

 Bangkok United 3 NRFC 0

Bangkok United, chasing an improbable AFC Champions League spot took on 8^th place NRFC in the capital. Bangkok United were, in my judgment the best side to visit the 80^th Anniversary Stadium this year, gaining an emphatic victory in the corresponding fixture earlier in the season.

There was a strong contingent of fans from Korat, who probably outnumbered the home fans – what a pity such a talented team should play before such paltry numbers of fans – average attendance under 3000 fans!

A cautious start from both teams with Korat making some useful sorties forward but relying too often on speculative long balls aimed at Lee Tuck. Bangkok did not show much early doors but I suspect there is a lot more to come later.

A bad miss by the home team from a 6 yard header following a corner kept the scores level but after some pressure, Jojo scored a smart goal in the 32^nd minute to give the home side the lead. A minute later a reckless challenge by T May T led to a red card being brandished and the men in white reduced to 10 men.

Swatcats continued to probe and probably had slightly the edge during the first half and were a little unlucky to end the half one down.

The second half began with a lot of midfield sparring with neither side able to stamp real authority on the game. A great save from the Bangkok keeper – indeed a “superrrsave” in the 54th minute prevented an equalizer from the men from Isaan. Minutes later a snap shot from Noah Chivuta stung the palms of the home teams keeper as NRFC continued to test the Bangkok defence. Moments later, a Lee Tuck angled shot shaved the upright and in terms of clear chances the Swatcats should have been ahead in this encounter.

The home side countered when Jojo launched a great low volley which flew inches wide.

A 77^th minute penalty, with a further penalty 2 minutes later being placed wide and an 85^th minute strike sealed the points for the home side.

Bangkok undoubtedly has some classy individuals in the side but seemed to stutter tonight – hardly a heavenly performance from the Bangkok Angels but a vital 3 points gained - a slightly flattering score line I think.