Despite early pressure from the home side, it was Ratchaburi who struck first in the 29th minute. A VAR review confirmed a penalty, which Tana converted. Undeterred, the Swat Cats battled back, and their resilience paid off in the dying moments when Lima equalised, sending the home crowd into raptures.
The drama continued in the 97th minute when Nakhon Ratchasima’s Nattanant Biesamrit received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Thanawat Suengchitthawon. This followed a second yellow card for his teammate Beck in the 84th minute.
Despite the late dismissal, the 1-1 draw was a fair reflection of the match. Both teams entered the game in good form. Nakhon Ratchasima had earned 4 points from their last five games and were unbeaten in their last two home matches. Their recent games had been high-scoring, with over three goals in each of their last seven. However, they had also failed to score in two of their previous five.
Ratchaburi had collected an impressive 11 points from their last five games and were unbeaten in their last five. They had been a potent attacking force, scoring nine times in their previous five matches. The draw keeps both teams in contention for a top-half finish.
A closer look at the statistics reveals a fascinating tactical battle. Despite having 63% possession and completing 486 passes compared to Nakhon Ratchasima’s 273, Ratchaburi struggled to create clear-cut chances. Their 81.5% passing accuracy in the attacking half was impressive, but their final ball let them down, as demonstrated by their 56.8% passing accuracy in the final third. They only completed 34 passes into the penalty area, despite 70 attempts into the final third.
Nakhon Ratchasima, on the other hand, employed a counter-attacking approach, absorbing pressure and breaking quickly. This was reflected in their statistics, with fewer successful dribbles (3 compared to Ratchaburi’s 6) and a lower duel success rate (43.8%). However, they were clinical, scoring with one of their five shots on target. Their defensive solidity was also notable, with a 90% tackle success rate and 8 interceptions.
Ultimately, Ratchaburi’s inability to break down Nakhon Ratchasima’s organised defence, combined with the Swat Cats’ efficient counter-attack, resulted in a draw. The match was a captivating encounter that highlighted the tactical acumen of both teams.
Other Games:
Bangkok United 2-2 Rayong
Bangkok United failed to capitalise on their game in hand on Friday, drawing with Rayong. Hae-Min Jeon and Lwin Moe Aung scored for Rayong in the first half, before Eid scored twice for Bangkok United to level the score. Despite increasing the pressure, Bangkok United couldn’t find a winner, leaving them trailing leaders Buriram by 7 points with 9 games remaining.
Muangthong United 2-1 Chiang Rai United
Chiang Rai conceded two late goals in injury time, losing valuable points. Stewart had given Chiang Rai the lead in the 38th minute, but Teeraphol and Cissokho scored in the 91st and 95th minutes respectively for Muangthong United.
Nakhon Pathom 2-1 Khon Kaen United
This defeat all but condemns Khon Kaen United to Thai League 2 next season. Pheemphapob and Sunchai scored for Nakhon Pathom, while Landis scored a late consolation for Khon Kaen United.
Lamphun Warriors 1-0 Sukhothai
Lamphun Warriors beat a determined Sukhothai side, who, despite controlling possession, lacked end product. Tawan scored the only goal of the game in the 29th minute.
BG Pathum 1-0 Port FC
Port FC failed to build on their win against Buriram United, losing to BG Pathum in what was Anthony Hudson first T1 game as boss. Surachart scored the only goal of the game in the first half.
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.