Yesterday’s (Feb 9) Matchday 15 fixture away at Pattani FC was always going to be a sterner test than last week’s draw against a struggling Phatthalung FC side, and so it transpired as PAFC fell to a 2-1 defeat.
However, the manner of the defeat and the questionable tactical approach adopted by Coach Tum will leave many supporters scratching their heads. Instead of sticking with the 3-5-2 formation that yielded a more positive performance last time out, the team inexplicably switched to a 4-3-3, a system they have not used at all under the current manager. This tactical gamble backfired spectacularly.
Adding to the confusion, Kai Boham was handed a starting berth in the unfamiliar position of right-back, only to be substituted after 35 minutes. With no apparent injury, this decision hardly instills confidence in the player and raises questions about the coach’s man-management. PAFC were also hampered by the absence of two of their overseas stars, David Danielsson (illness) and Luke Pavon (unknown).
While a cautious approach away against one of the league’s stronger teams is understandable, PAFC’s narrow formation, with both full-backs and wingers constantly inverting, allowed Pattani to attack with impunity down the flanks.
The Lobsters struggled to string a meaningful series of passes together and, until their consolation goal in the 95th minute, rarely looked like troubling the Pattani goalkeeper. Their attacking threat was virtually non-existent.
Both of Pattani’s goals came from the head of their towering Brazilian centre-back, Silva, in the 27th and 39th minutes. The first was a simple, unchallenged header from a cross on the left, while the second came from a corner on the right, where he again evaded his marker with ease. PAFC’s marking, or lack thereof, was truly abysmal on both occasions.
This latest defeat leaves Phuket languishing in 10th position, precariously close to the relegation zone, just three points above the drop. Realistically, wins against the two teams below them in the table will be crucial to securing their future at this level, but given their current form, even those are far from guaranteed.
Coach Tum’s job appears safe for the time being, having only taken over three matches prior to the end of the first leg, and with the club’s well-documented financial difficulties. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find any positives in his current stewardship of the team. Serious questions need to be asked about his tactics, team selections, and ability to motivate the players.
Next up for PAFC is the visit of Muang Trang United next Sunday (Feb 16).
Simon Causton is the host of ‘A Thai Football Podcast’ and writer of the ’Tee-Sen" (ที่เส้น) - At the line’ blog which covers all things Thai football.