Dateline 3^rd March 2019

 FT NRFC 1 Chiang Rai United 2

Attendance; 17215*

*official published figure, I think it is a typo, should be 7215

The Swatcats welcomed the beetles of Chiang Rai in this the opening home game of the new campaign.

Bill almost caused an early shock in the third minute when he found himself clear, but his low drive was beaten away by keeper Cunningham. The hosts then countered with some impressive forward play involving new boys Amadou and Henry. One of these thrusts forward culminated in a fine Assumpcao drive that shaved the upright.

In the 21^st minute Chiang Rai headed in from a free kick, but the offside flag had been raised and the effort was ruled out. There then followed some intense Swatcat pressure but after a swift counter, Rodrigues Da Silva back heeled Chiang Rai into the lead in the 29^th minute. Minutes later Henri tapped in to equalize after a goal mouth melee.

All square at half time but with Bill looking dangerous for Chiang Rai and the hosts threatening almost at will, more goals will surely come.

The Swatcats began the second half on the front foot with continuing thrusts forward with Amadou and Assumpcao looking increasingly dangerous. In the 59^th minute after some superb work from Assumpcao set Henri free, the Ivorian ran in on goal but fired into the side netting from 8 yards.

In the 75^th minute, Chiang Rai were awarded a penalty for a trip inside the box. Bill converted the spot kick to give the visitors the lead.

In a game of few genuine chances and two decent, well matched sides, Chiang Rai were slightly fortunate to win this one. I was most impressed with our new boys Amadou and Henri. They linked well with Assumpcao and will form a formidable forward force this season.

 A disappointing but not disastrous result and I believe that the display should provide the team with optimism for the coming campaign.

Match Day 2 Stats