The initial promise that accompanied the arrival of Higher Sports and their purchase of the club, under the leadership of president Russ Horsley, has long since evaporated. Hopes of a new dawn have given way to a grim reality, replaced by a climate of uncertainty and a descent into crisis.
The managerial situation, a key indicator of the turmoil engulfing the club, has taken another dramatic turn. Just days before this crucial final match, Coach M has resigned from his position. In a statement, he expressed his regret at leaving the club in such a precarious situation but ultimately decided to step down. This latest departure means that PAFC are now on their fourth coach of the season, a statistic that speaks volumes about the lack of direction and coherent planning.
The early dismissal of Coach Go set a precedent for instability, a decision that was followed by an equally turbulent period under Coach Tum. With the club now rudderless, president Russ Horsley will take charge of the team for the crucial final game against Yala, a move that highlights the desperation of the situation.
This chronic instability has inevitably had a detrimental impact on performances on the pitch. PAFC find themselves in a perilous position, their relegation fears intensifying with each passing game. The club currently languishes on a meagre 14 points.
Their final fixture against FC Yala has now assumed colossal importance. A victory is essential, but even that may not be enough to secure survival. PAFC’s fate is inextricably linked to the results of their relegation rivals.
The stakes could not be higher. Relegation would be a catastrophic setback for PAFC, with potentially terminal ramifications. It would likely trigger an immediate exodus of players, with all current squad members out of contract and free to depart. The club would then face a lengthy and arduous road to recovery. They would be forced to re-register and re-enter the league through the Thai Semi-Pro League, which will promise to be competitive and challenging environment. This process would not be possible until March 2026 at the earliest, leaving the club in a state of purgatory for an extended period.
Given the club’s already precarious financial situation, it is highly uncertain whether the owners would be willing or able to sustain the club through such a prolonged period without competitive fixtures, raising profound questions about the club’s long-term viability.
Adding to the club’s woes, there are widespread reports of significant disharmony and indiscipline within the squad. A mutinous group of players is rumoured to exist, with captain Kla, his brother Keng, top scorer Bank and several other influential figures allegedly refusing to play unless certain unspecified demands are met. These players are reported to be key figures recruited by former coach Go, further highlighting the lingering shadow of past managerial regimes and the club’s deeply rooted problems.
The legacy of former coach Go continues to haunt the club. Go has faced serious allegations of impropriety, with accusations of accepting under-the-table payments from players during his previous tenure at Customs FC. These allegations cast a dark cloud over his past actions and raise further questions about the club’s recruitment policies and overall governance.
As PAFC approach the precipice, the situation is dire. The club is battling on multiple fronts: on the pitch, in the boardroom, and within the dressing room. Their final match represents a last-ditch attempt to stave off complete disaster.
Despite the prevailing gloom, a flicker of hope remains, however faint. The passionate support of the local fans could provide a crucial source of inspiration. In a final rallying cry, there is an urgent call for them to come and support the club. A show of unity and unwavering support could provide the players with the impetus they need to pull off an unlikely escape from the jaws of relegation.
The fate of PAFC is now hanging by a thread. This final match will be a defining moment in the club’s history, determining whether they can somehow survive or face an uncertain and potentially bleak future.
Simon Causton is the host of ‘A Thai Football Podcast’ and writer of the ’Football Siam’ blog which covers all things Thai football.