Dateline 5^th September 2018

 FT Pattaya United 0 NRFC 1

Attendance; 2328

An explosive start in this mid table clash when, in the second minute, Antonio Pina sensationally lashed in from 50 yards. This goal will 100% be seen as the goal of the season.

An astonished crowd, after recovering from such an amazing event was then subjected to the most successful rearguard action since Peacock’s Hill!!

Pattaya pressed forward gamely, probing and despite creating chances, were unable to break down the Swatcat’s resolute defence.

A 7^th minute free kick crashed against the visitor’s crossbar and minutes later Cunningham brought off two miraculous saves to keep out home attempts from close range but with the stage being set, the Swatcats dug in and defended deep.

In the 15^th minute, in a rare raid forward, Kunath was denied a stonewall penalty when he was brought down unceremoniously inside the box. Pattaya bounced back and keeper Cunningham was again called into action in the 22^nd minute when he tipped a low drive just around the post.

As the half drew to a close, the home team were well on top but were becoming increasingly frustrated at their inability to break the deadlock.

As the second half began, Pattaya continued to surge forward and in the 60^th minute a long range shot shaved the post and minutes later Cunningham tipped a free kick onto the bar.

In a late flourish Cunningham parried a close range header but despite almost continuous pressure, Pattaya only managed 3 direct second half shots on target - testament I feel to the visitor’s dogged defending.

In the final minute Kunath, through on goal, was upended and the home defender was shown a red card. The resulting free kick from Pina was well saved by the keeper.

Well, this was a result much against the run of play. The visitors shut up shop after the early opener and then a brave rearguard action against a talented Pattaya team resulted in an important three points. That early goal was one of only two attempts on goal for the team and perversely, Pattaya could have scored 4 or 5 but for some real heroics by keeper Cunningham.

The team is, in my opinion, now safe from relegation - well done to the players and coach - I certainly underestimated the team and now we must press for a top 8 position in the league.

A forthcoming semi final berth (and final maybe) coupled with a potential top 8 finish certainly represents a successful campaign. My early season pessimism was thankfully unwarranted and we seem to have survived the pivotal “5 down” season.

Match Day 27 Stats