Dateline 26^th Feb 2017 – Match day 3.

 FT Chonburi Sharks 0 NRFC 0

The Swatcats travelled east to take on the Chonburi Sharks in this weekend’s fixture. The match began with both sides sparring but with little end effect and both defences able to cope with what few half chances were created.

In the 7^th minute a flailing Victor Igbonefo was lucky not to concede a penalty with a clumsy challenge just outside the 18 yard box. The resulting free kick struck the bar with the visiting keeper well beaten.

Poor balls in the final third prevented either side from creating real chances and at times the fans were subjected to periods of ping pong soccer with both sides alternately belting it long rather than playing it through midfield.

In the 16^th minute Andre Luis tested the keeper with a snap shot and in the 47^th minute, a well crafted move resulted in a Dominic Adiyiah drive that was well saved by the home team’s keeper, were rare moments of class in an otherwise dull first half.

A couple of half chances from the Sharks as the half progressed gave them the edge as the first half concluded.

The second half began with attacking moves from both sides again breaking down with poor final balls, but in the 52^nd minute Chonburi went close with a looping header after a fine cross. The home team began to exert increasing pressure with the men in orange confined to rare breaks forward.

Despite this pressure, clear cut chances were at a premium as the Swatcats defended doggedly, snuffing out any potential threats. The match petered out in a rather uninspiring way with the match ending in a dull stalemate - a useful point for the visitors but with home advantage, Chonburi will be disappointed with their lack of firepower up front.

A poor spectacle tonight with two teams destined, on their performances tonight, for mid table mediocrity. Neither side provided any real and consistent class up front with both keepers experiencing a relatively quiet night.

A dour and determined performance from the Swatcats, which keeps them unbeaten. Still only two goals from three matches which is a worry but 4 points from our opening two away games is encouraging and if we can maintain a decent home record we should be heading for a mid table finish.

Defensively (only one goal conceded so far and that was a penalty) we look sound, but Victor Igbonefo looked sluggish at times tonight and I think stronger teams will expose his lack of pace.

A mention has to be made about the Swatcat’s support tonight. The away section was sold out and the fans were noisy and relentless in their support of the team - well done to the fans. I feel sure that the players appreciate their support.