The loss extends Muangthong’s winless streak to five games across all competitions, leaving them with 36 points and languishing in sixth place in the Thai League 1 table. Port FC, meanwhile, consolidated their fifth position with the victory, taking their points tally to 40.
The match was significant for another reason: the return of Port FC’s away fans. After an eight-year ban due to past incidents of violence, Port FC supporters were allowed to attend the match at the Thunder Dome Stadium. While there were some minor incidents outside the stadium prior to kick-off, the atmosphere throughout the game was largely peaceful between the two sets of fans.
The game got off to a lively start, with both sides creating chances early on. Port FC had the first real opportunity in the 13th minute when Pathomphon broke free down the right flank and squared the ball to Lonsana Doumbouya, but the striker’s effort sailed over the crossbar. Just a minute later, however, Port FC took the lead through Worachit Kanitsribumpen. A swift counter-attack saw Peeradol Chamrasamee release Worachit, who coolly slotted the ball past Muangthong goalkeeper Kittipong.
Muangthong responded with urgency and almost found an equaliser in the 39th minute. Melvin Lorenzen’s clever flick found Korawich, whose shot from a tight angle was well saved by Port FC custodian Somporn.
The second half saw Muangthong continue to press for an equaliser, but it was Port FC who struck again in the 71st minute. Pakorn’s corner was met by the head of Tanaboon Kesarat, who powered the ball into the net to give Port FC a commanding 2-0 lead.
Muangthong were handed a lifeline in the 89th minute when referee Songkran Bunmeekiat awarded a penalty after Melvin Lorenzen was brought down in the box by Chalermsak Aukkee. The decision was confirmed by VAR, and Teeraphol Yoryoey stepped up to convert the spot-kick, giving Muangthong a glimmer of hope.
Despite a frantic final few minutes, Muangthong were unable to find the equaliser, and Port FC held on for a valuable victory.
Deep Dive
The statistics paint a picture of a closely contested encounter, with Muangthong enjoying the lion’s share of possession (59%) but failing to translate that dominance into clear-cut chances. Port FC, on the other hand, were clinical in their approach, converting two of their five shots on target.
Muangthong’s expected goals (xG) of 1.31 suggests they created opportunities of reasonable quality, but Port FC’s xG of 0.94 indicates that their goals were of higher quality. This underlines the difference in finishing between the two sides, with Port FC proving more ruthless in front of goal.
The match also saw a high number of substitutions, with both teams making full use of their allotted changes. This perhaps reflects the intensity of the contest and the desire of both sides to find a winning formula.
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Simon Causton is the host of ‘A Thai Football Podcast’ and writer of the ’Football Siam’ blog which covers all things Thai football.