Dateline 5^th March 2016

 NRFC 0 Muang Thong United 1

In front of an astonishing 32 000 fans at the 80^th Anniversary Stadium, a decent and quick passing Muang Thong overcame a brave Swatcat team with a 37^th minute goal in this season opener.

In a repeat of the score in the corresponding fixture last year Muang Thong showed their class with their contingent of players from the Thai National team proving more than a match for the home team. I would note at this point however that NRFC looked a more polished and balanced side than at the start of last season.

The home team started brightly, spurning a golden chance to gain an 11^th minute advantage after an incredible run from Tagbajumi. Muang Thong however looked excellent going forward with quick passing and astute use of the flanks. They looked likely to score on a number of occasions but the home team defended doggedly. They produced a long range shot that struck the upright and in the 37^th minute a well flighted shot come cross drifted into the net much to the surprise of every player on the pitch!!!

The home team produced some useful attacking moves, with a long range shot tipped over by the keeper and some dogged defending preventing another shot but as the match progressed they seemed to tire allowing Muang Thong to gain more possession.

The second half saw the home team pressing forward leaving huge gaps for the visitors to exploit with Muang Thong happy to keep possession and protect their lead forcing the home keeper into a fine save in the 58^th minute

The Swatcat’s chances were few and far between with Tagbajumi forcing some great defensive work in the 60^th minute. The addition of Adido failed to inspire the home team to produce much but as the team pressed for an unlikely equalizer, the fans almost raised the roof when an 80th minute Lindemann blast shaved the woodwork and a Chivuta shot was well saved. Nagano then rose well to draw a first class save from the opposition keeper as the home team mounted a late rally. A Lindemann strike in the dying seconds flew inches over the bar denying the home team a first point of the season.

Positives to be taken: Tagbajumi looked a handful at times, the defence fought well and the general balance of the team looked useful and of course the wonderful support – if team members are not motivated by the atmoshpere at the 80 th Anniversary Stadium they should not be wearing the orange shirt.

Based on this performance, the Swatcats will have a respectable campaign. Losing to a strong team like Muang Thong is no disgrace. Going forward, I hope that team abandons the “one up front” strategy and strives to give Tagbajumi some support - especially for future home games.

As for Muang Thong, they looked like a top 3 team but I fear they will find it difficult to challenge for the top honour – their defending was shoddy at times and stronger opponents will capitalize on this.