Despite the unexpected change, PAFC started brightly, with Bebe proving a constant threat down the right wing. He created several early chances for striker Bank, who unfortunately failed to convert opportunities that, in hindsight, could have changed the complexion of the match.
However, it was clear from the outset that something was amiss within the PAFC ranks.
The team lacked the cohesion and fluidity displayed in Coach Tum’s first three games in charge. The midfield was particularly disappointing, repeatedly bypassed by Krabi’s attacks and failing to provide adequate support to the forward line. PAFC’s attempts to play out from the back were often thwarted by their lack of height and a midfield that seemed disengaged from the game plan.
Krabi capitalised on PAFC’s disarray, launching their first meaningful attack in the 25th minute and exposing the vulnerabilities in the opposition’s defence by demonstrating a fluency and understanding that the visitors sorely lacked.
This seemed to galvanise Krabi, who grew in confidence as the half progressed. Their opening goal in the 32nd minute stemmed from a debatable non-call by the referee. While Bebe was clearly fouled on the right wing, play continued, and Krabi took full advantage, with their left winger delivering a cross that was clinically finished by their number 18.
The goal deflated PAFC, and despite creating further chances, the midfield continued to operate too deep, leaving the attacking trio isolated. Winger Game and midfielder Petch were particularly ineffective, struggling to make any impact on the game.
The second half mirrored the first, with Krabi continuing to dominate midfield and create chances. The introduction of midfielder Not, despite his evident lack of match fitness, brought some much-needed composure and passing range to the PAFC midfield. However, his lack of fitness raises concerns about the team’s overall conditioning.
Despite Krabi’s dominance, PAFC still had opportunities to get back into the match. The introduction of Pong provided more support for Bank in attack, and they came close to scoring on several occasions. Bank missed a golden opportunity to equalise in the 58th minute, and winger Game forced a fine save from the Krabi goalkeeper.
However, Krabi’s superior quality ultimately told. In the 77th minute, they carved open Phuket’s defence with a slick passing move down the right flank, culminating in their second goal. They could have added further goals in the closing stages, leaving Coach Tum visibly frustrated on the touchline.
This defeat undoubtedly represents a setback for PAFC. The team now faces a battle against relegation, and reinforcements are urgently needed, particularly in central midfield and attack. While the three foreign players bring attacking flair, the lack of a dominant central midfielder and a proven goalscorer is a glaring weakness.
Man of the Match: None. Sadly, no Phuket player stood out enough to warrant the Man of the Match award based on their performance.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
PAFC Line Up:
99 - ‘Bee’ Anawin (GK)
66 - ‘Keng’ Patapee
4 - ‘Bass’ Akkharadech
3 - ‘Mark’ Rungsak
79 - ‘Ohm’ Athagorn
27 - ‘Min’ Kittinan
55 - ‘Kla’ Patapee
17 - ‘Game’ Satawat
8 - ‘Petch’ Chinnatan
77 - ‘Bebe’ Coulibary
9 - ‘Bank’ Sarod
Substitutes:
46 - ‘Pang’ Mumadirfan
7 - ‘Rahman’ Abdelrahman
26 - ‘Preuk’ Kitipat
6 - ‘Not’ Kanin (sub for 8 45”)
21 - ‘Ball’ Muhammad (sub for 17 78”)
18 - ‘Prem’ Saekoy
29 - ‘Pong’ Pokpong (sub for 27 58”)
25 - ‘Chao Pan’Kwanchai
11 - ‘Torky’Abdelrahman
41 - ‘Phum’ Sathaporn
47 - ‘Wa’ Wuttichai
Looking Ahead:
PAFC now face two crucial matches to conclude the first leg of the season. They host bottom club Ranong United on Saturday (Nov 16, kick-off 3:30pm) before travelling to Surat Thani the following week. Victories in both games are essential to lift the team’s morale and provide a buffer from the relegation zone.
After Saturday’s result PAFC stand ninth in the 12-team table.