This Phatthalung side, stripped of key players over the summer, was a far cry from the team that nearly secured a T2 playoff spot last season. Based on this performance, a mid-table finish seems likely for them, a worrying sign for an out-of-sorts PAFC side desperately lacking in confidence.
Sadly, the scoreline will linger longer in the memory than the encouraging first-half performance. PAFC retained the defence and midfield that performed adequately against Nara United last week but opted to rotate the front line, with Egyptian Torky, Ivorian Bebe and ‘Rahman’ replacing Game, Ball, and Petch respectively. The changes initially showed promise, with the trio linking well on the left, but their efforts lacked a cutting edge.
A physical Phatthalung side were content to allow PAFC possession, focusing on a direct counter-attacking style. Despite dominating possession and showcasing slick passing, PAFC’s lack of bite in the final third will be a major concern for the club hierarchy.
The referee had a solid game overall, with the exception of a dubious penalty decision (more on that later). He was unusually generous in awarding free kicks to the away side, most of which were squandered.
The inevitable Phatthalung breakthrough came in the 27th minute as PAFC’s defence switched off, allowing opposition forward Panitan to ghost past six players and score.
Phuket rallied, with Bebe forcing several saves, but despite their dominance in possession and style, they lacked the necessary ruthlessness to finish their chances. Indeed, they were fortunate to go into the break only one goal down after Brazilian forward Lucas struck the crossbar from the penalty spot following a baffling penalty decision in the 40th minute.
The home side started the second half brightly, forcing goalkeeper Bee into action on several occasions. The introduction of impact substitutes Game and Ball in the 58th minute swung the momentum back in PAFC’s favour, but the Phatthalung keeper produced a string of fine saves to maintain their lead.
However, the equaliser finally arrived in the 70th minute, with Ball gliding across the penalty area before cutting inside and calmly slotting the ball past the keeper.
Sadly, the positive energy generated by the goal was short-lived. Instead of pushing for a winner, the Lobsters sat back and conceded three quick-fire goals in four minutes.
Towering Brazilian centre-back Senna grabbed the first, followed by a brace from Lucas. With the game lost, PAFC pushed for a consolation. Forward Bank, now switched to his more accustomed central role after an ineffective first half on the right, spurned a clear-cut chance.
PRESSING QUESTIONS
The defeat leaves owner Russ Horsley with several pressing questions. With the team rooted to the bottom of the table after four games, it is not time to panic, but positive steps are needed.
Firstly, with coach Go now gone, who will take the reins? And will they be able to translate the owner’s vision onto the pitch?
Secondly, how can the team’s overall fitness be improved? The athleticism of many in the squad is questionable, and they tire far too easily.
Thirdly, with a squad boasting several impact players (Bebe, Torky, Petch, Ball, Game, Rahman), how can they be utilised effectively to create clear-cut chances?
Fourthly, how can they add steel to the midfield? Captain Kla and Min lack physicality and the ability to control games, while perennial substitute Not, despite his experience, is alarmingly out of shape.
Finally, who is going to score the goals? Bank has an eye for the spectacular but seems unable to convert the simplest of chances. While this may all seem negative, it provides a blueprint for December when the winter break and transfer window open.
Man of the Match: 07 - ‘Rahman’ Abdelrahman. A tough choice with no standout performer. ‘Rahman’ gets the nod for his energetic first-half display. He linked up well with Bebe and Torky on his first start but needs to add more end product to his game.
The result leaves PAFC bottom of the table following 3 losses and 1 draw from their opening four games.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
PAFC Line Up:
99 - ‘Bee’ Anawin (GK)
66 - ‘Keng’ Patapee
4 - ‘Bass’ Akkharadech
3 - ‘Mark’ Rungsak
26 - ‘Preuk’ Kitipat
27 - ‘Min’ Kittinan
41 - ‘Kla’ Patapee
9 - ‘Bank’ Sarod
77 - ‘Bebe’ Coulibary
11 - ‘Torky’Abdelrahman
7 - ‘Rahman’ Abdelrahman
Substitutes:
46 - ‘Pang’ Mumadirfan
6 - ‘Not’ Kanin
17 - ‘Game’ Satawat
18 - ‘Prem’ Saekoy
21 - ‘Ball’ Muhammad
8 - ‘Petch’ Chinnatan
25 - ‘Chao Pan’Kwanchai
79 - ‘Ohm’ Athagorn
29 - ‘Pong’ Pokpong
41 - ‘Phum’’ Sathaporn
47 - ‘Wa’ Wuttichai
PAFC’s next match is at home against Pattani FC on Wednesday, Oct 16, kick-off 3:30pm.