Saturday, 11 May 2019


Dateline 11th May 2019

 FT Buriram United 2 NRFC 0


Attendance; 15867



The Thunder Castle was the venue for this the first Isaan derby clash of the season.

In a pulsating start, the home side started brightly with Cunningham called upon to make a save in the first minute. The Swatcats then countered and Assumpcao blasted in a shot that the keeper tipped into the side netting.

With Buriram looking menacing going forward, the visitors defended with great resolve but in the 21st minute Buriram went ahead with a superb free kick from Luong Xuam Truong.

As the game developed into a tense midfield battle, few chances were created but in the 43rd minute, Amadou went on a mazy run but he pushed his shot wide.
As the first half drew to a close, Buriram went in one up but the visitors were certainly not out of it.



The second half commenced with the Swatcats pushing forward with Yaya Kunath volleying wide and a clever free kick routine presenting him with a chance to prod in, but he was thwarted by the home keeper. Buriram countered and keeper Cunningham was forced to push a low drive wide of the upright.

In the 58th minute, Amadou was brought down inches outside the box, he claimed a penalty, but replays confirmed a correct decision by the referee - no penalty - well done ref!! Minutes later an excellent passing move put Kunath clear, but his shot was well saved by the home keeper.

In what was proving to be a dominant period of play by the visitors, Buriram were forced onto the back foot and Henry headed in from a free kick in the 72nd minute but the goal was ruled offside.

Against the run of play, Buriram went two up when Suphanat slotted home in the 79th minute and as the match meandered to a conclusion, part of me perhaps thinks that the Swatcats deserved a point tonight.



A great battle and a decent performance against a strong Buriram side. Individuals competed well and the team certainly were not outclassed by a side who probably will go on to win the title. The second half performance, in which they more than matched Buriram was very encouraging.



Footnote; Superb support from the Swatcat fans who filled the visiting fans enclosure.

Match Day 10 Stats


















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