Dateline 22^nd June 2019

 FT Sukhothai 1 NRFC 0

Attendance; 3182

In early exchanges, both sides passed the ball around smartly with the Firebats having slightly the better of play. As the 20 minute mark approached, neither side had managed a shot on target.

In the 26^th minute Henri broke clear after an Assumpcao through ball, but his close-range effort was blocked. This one incident of excitement was the sole highlight as a largely unremarkable half drew to a close.

The second half began and my thought was that only a touch of brilliance from perhaps Amadou or Baggio could break the deadlock in what was becoming a largely sterile performance from both sides.

As in the first half both teams found it difficult to create chances but with the visitors trying to be more assertive, they looked more likely to score the opener.

 Kongnateechai Boonma had a great chance to put the home side in front in the 68^th minute but he shot over. The Swatcats countered and Kunath put in a swerving drive.

Baggio broke the deadlock in the 81^st minute with a fine swerving drive, He nearly doubled the lead in the 86^th minute, but his low drive was saved by keeper Cunningham.

My, my that was tough viewing, what a dreadful spectacle. A mediocre performance from the Swatcats who were beaten by a touch of class from Baggio. Absolutely nothing up front from the visitors who deserved nothing from this match.

 A most disappointing end of Leg 1 for the Swatcats but still in 7^th place in the league. This is probably where we will be come season’s end and I guess will represent progress for Milos Joksic’s squad.

Match Day 15 Stats