Ariyawat Nuamsawat Pattaya United, the Blue & White Dolphins took on newly promoted Sriracha FC in their inaugural match in the Thai Premier League at the Nongprue Municipality Field in Pattaya last Sunday, but for the many home fans anticipating a winning start to the season, it turned into something of an anti-climax.
Indeed, it was Sriracha who started the stronger and who took the lead in the 20th minute when Japanese striker Saruta Hi-ronoshi put visitors in front. Pattaya, led by their captain Santi Chaipuek, gradually began to work their way back into the game and it came as no surprise when they equalized just before half time when Sompob Nilwong headed in to send the teams off level at the break.
The second half was a somewhat scrappy affair with both teams committing numerous fouls and the referee being forced to brandish the yellow card on more then one occasion.
There was huge moment of controversy right near the end of the game when Pattaya United striker Thana Chanabutr had a goal disallowed for offside just when he appeared to have claimed all three points for the home team. The officials decision was not well received by the more than 2,500 spectators in the stadium who werent shy at letting the referee know their feelings.
The final whistle sounded soon after to leave both teams having to settle for a point each. Pattaya manager Pansak Ketwatha paid compliments to both teams and the supporters in the post match press conference and said he hopes for a better performance from his team in their next match.
Pattayas next game is an away fixture against Nakhon Pathom this Sunday, March 15 with a 4 p.m. kick-off. The next home match will be another local derby on March 22 against Chonburi F.C., kick-off at 6 p.m.
Pattaya United have recently opened a new club store on Pattaya Third Road close to TOT and Carrefour where all the official merchandise can be purchased. For the latest news about the Blue & White Dolphins check the Pattaya Mail sports pages each week or go to the club website at
www.pattayautd.com.
Credit :
www.pattayamail.com
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