Muangthong United 1 Buriram United 1 - Report

Marching to the tile

There's never any shortage of intensity when these two play each other and this game was no different. Buriram took the lead through the nippy Frank Achempong early on but the Quilins raised their game and in the second half Buriram's goalie - no stranger to controversy - decided that nobody would notice if he attempted a WWE-style suplex on Pitchipong in the area. The (imported) referee did notice, but decided pro-wrestling suplexes necessitated only a yellow card. Up stepped the super one to take the spot kick. Mario is more of a 'Matt Le Tiss' penalty taker than a 'Julian Dicks' style, so he placed the shot in the corner, sending the home crowd into rapture.

The game really picked up from there. Mario took a diving head that agonisingly came off the woodwork and out, before Piyapol - some reports have mixed his name up with Panupong - took a second yellow and conceded what I felt was a soft penalty decision by the ref.

Now let me rave for a second here: Kawin produced an awesome "pistols at dawn" stare in Suchao's direction before the kick and lived up to it with a superb save. Our keeper is awesome. Thank you.


Down to ten men, we rode out the final moments of the game under pressure, including a superb goal-stopping deflection by Ri who - according to a certain person - was suspended. Buriram's late goal was disallowed, apparently as a player was offside but not interfering, and moved back onside before the goal was scored. It was harsh on the visitors but as I've said before, the "not interfering with play" clause doesn't seem to exist to Thai or Asian officials.

The final score was one all, which suits us far more than our rivals. The foreign ref was inconsistent and made some poor decisions, but Buriram's late non-goal may well never have happened if they had been reduced to ten men and a reserve goalie as they clearly should have, so we could argue that the poor decisions balanced out. At least it was refreshing to see little toleration of play-acting and petulance.

Matt Riley has reported of some bizarre and most unsporting behaviour from people who should know better, but that aside, we can at least reflect on a good game of football.


Man of the Match:

Every time I think he's peaked, Pitchipong Chochieu comes back better than ever. He's not a "star name" but he's been integral to our squad for more than 3 years. May he stay another 3+. Also well worth a mention is Ri Kwan, who is really adapting to the Thai game and looking as solid as Zesh was in the same shirt number.


Full game:

Action shots

Some photos by Jirawat Srikong that were just too good not to share. Keep up the great work Jirawat!

2012 Squad Introduction

Jirawat mooinblack 66818053470

Muangthong United look set for a stronger season in 2012. Despite the close season being all too short, the management have manoeuvred very wisely in the transfer market and at the time of writing, only the promise of a new international defender was left to be fulfilled. Now then, I present a run down of the key players in Muangthong United's 2012 campaign, the year we take back that we lost.

In Thailand players can be known by "official" nickname (informal), first name (easier sometimes) or surname (professional football style). Often, I use my own affectionate nicknames for ease. The name in quotations is how I expect to refer to the player in reports.

Note: official squad numbers will be added ASAP. 

"Just to reconfirm, if the contract ends early......"

Slaviša Jokanović  -  Head Coach, "Solvva"
The Serbian comes with a pedigree and experience that promises much. It almost goes without saying that all he needs is to be left alone to get on with his work.
Most likely to: Get a sore throat from cheering his team's goals, and a sore tongue from biting it.



Key player: Kawin Thamasatchanan - GK "Kawin"

"The exit's that way Mister De Gea"

22 year old Kawin may be barely past Kindergarten by goalkeeper standards, yet I still have a hunch this season could be crucial in determining his long term career success.

Injury held him back in 2011 and although he returned to full fitness well before mid-season, his form was hindered by the boardroom wrangles and then the rule of Robbie that the whole team suffered from.

Perhaps his confidence took a hit but if anyone had forgotten about his potential, they certainly remembered after his colossal display in the cup final.

In my opinion this all sets Kawin back at square one - a young goalie with huge potential that needs to be managed carefully by Muangthong. Rene suggested he take a move to a bigger Asian league such as Japan for his next step but even if the big move to England does happen, he might just cope OK. Not only is he highly professional in his training but he's also humble and sensible. This is a guy who still turns up in flip flops to watch Rajpracha FC with his mum, smiling shyly when fans ask him for a photo.

In summary, a performance akin to the 2010 season is distinctly possible this season, fate allowing. How this remarkably precocious 'keeper deals with the inevitable approaches that come his way will be life changing. Yes, he's that good, he could be the elusive one.
Most likely to: Make the guys cheer, the girls swoon and have everyone chanting his name after another fingertip save.

Reserve goalies
With Weera on loan at TOT and  Witsanusak Kaewruang still out somewhere, our two reserve goalies are totally unknown quantities right now. I believe their names are Weerayut Makmoon and Suttichoke Chaikan.  More information to come when available.
Most likely to: Have this blogger and ATF asking each other: "Which one is this guy again? "



Weerawut  Kayem - Left back "Kayem"
Teenage left back with pace and professionalism who showed his face in 2010 and then came on in leaps and bounds last season. This year he should look for consistency. A chance to really establish his name as a long term MTU player beckons.
Most likely to: Make older fans feel tired simply by seeing how much he can run

Ri Kwang Chon - Centre back "Ri Kwang" 
Details here.

Panupong Wongsa - Centre back "Panupong"
Like so many Muangthong players, 2011 can be summed up as "Good, but just not as good as 2010" for southern-born Panupong. A return to stability along with some quality cover should see a restitution of form this time around. More battles with the hungry young attacking players at Buriram United await.
Most likely to: Pick up some more MOTM awards on the blog.

Captain Nattaporn and his daughter

Key player: Nattaporn Pannarit - Centre back and captain "Nattaporn, Captain Nat"
Aged thirty, a veteran by Thai standards, Captain Nattaporn was my defender of choice last season for his bravery, positioning and commitment to the cause. Under Fowler however, his form dropped considerably, something he noticed himself when it started to come back. A return to full form is vital for this season as another drop might spell the end of his career at top level. I've got no doubt he'll come good again though, he's got heart.
Most likely to: Get that bruising last second goal-line clearance.



Arthit Daosawang - Right back, "Arthit"
Almost a character clone of Kayem, but at right back. Arthit will be looking to build consistency on top of the foundations of potential he showed last season. We still need cover down both flanks for these teenage players, though.
Most likely to: Play a great game of football, then go home and play a great game of 'Call of Duty' online.


Todsapol Lated - Centre back, "Todd"
Snapped up from cash-strapped Thai Port last season, probably for a fire sale fee. Thai Port fans rate him highly but inside whispers have suggested consistency might be an issue.

Super Mario squashes another one

Most likely to: Get love from both Thai Port and MTU fans after we play them.




Key player:  Mario Djurovski - Midfield, "Super Mario"
Another incoming foreigner from close-season that comes highly rated. Early impressions are of a player that likes to play steady, weighted passes on the floor. If he can adjust quickly enough to the Thai game and the pitch conditions that come with it, a player of this type might make all the difference in our final league position.
Most likely to: Be a big hit with home fans.



Datsakorn Thonglao - Centre midfield, "Datsakorn, Dat Le Tiss"
The "Le Tissier" of 2010 found wonder goals and consistency (that word again) far harder to come by last time around. But it's not just flashy stuff that counts with the former Tero man, he can get stuck in, too. The quality is still there and perhaps the arrival of a player that, a first glance, looks so similar in style (Barakat) will push him to raise his game.
Most likely to: Get muddy shorts in the rainy season, thanks to all those slide-tackles.

Now that blogger's got no excuse!

Dagno Siaka - Attacking midfield/deep midfield "Dagno, Danny-o, Kone"
Long term member of the squad and one of those players you always want on your side. Dagno is versatile, quick and strong and could walk in to almost any first team in Thailand.
Most likely to: Take penalties, and keep the new hairstyle to stop me confusing him with Kone again. (I hope!).



Nattarid Thammarossopon - Centre midfield, "Natt"
Young player signed from BEC Tero, shows massive promise.
Most likely to: Win a MOTM award then get taken out to Swensens by his mum as reward.


Adnan Barakat - Centre midfield, "Adnan"
Signed from FC Baku, Barakat comes highly rated and his youtube highlights suggest he might be a set-piece demon. Could prove a real challenge to Datsakorn.
Most likely to: Score a great free kick then wai the fans.





Jakkaphan Pornsai - Wing, attacking midfield, "Pornsai"
Hotly anticipated player signed from Police before 2011 that only showed flashes of his promise last time around Will need to work hard this season. My gut feeling says he won't be with us for more than half a season.
Most likely to: Run down the line, cut inside and lay the low cross.



Ekapoom Potharungroj - Winger, "Ekapoom"
As with Todsapol, well-rated by Port fans but needs to earn his place.

You talkin' to me? I don't see nobody else....

Pitchipong Choechieu - Midfield, "Pitchipong"
We're looking a little top-heavy on midfielders aren't we? We could guess Pitchipong is the man to make way, but then every time I write him off, he comes back more dedicated and better than ever.
Most likely to: Pop up when you need him.


Piyapol Buntao - Attacking midfielder, "Buntao"
A squad player for the last couple of seasons that has started to look more and more deserving of a place in the first team. Seems to raise his game for the bigger matches. Definitely good to have on the bench, at least.
Most likely to: Have everyone forget about him, come off the bench and score a cracker.

Christian be praised!

Key player: Christian Kaokao - Winger, forward, "Chris, Christian"
The real bonus of the 2012, given how much interest has been shown in him lately and how resigned many staff were to losing him. His remarkable ability was subdued by the sheer physical pressure of so much travel and playing time over the last two seasons and for that reason, that single extra week of rest we've been given before opening day might just make a big difference. Still a highly talented dribbler and finisher that is held back by his mental approach to the game.
Most likely to: Just like last season - beat three guys, go for a penalty, realise he won't get it, get up, beat them all again and score a great goal.



Kone Muhammed - Forward, "Kone, Dagno"
The prodigal son of 2012? As if being re-signed from TOT - where he went due to his failed fitness test in Belgium - wasn't respite enough, Kone received full support from MTU staff during some confusion with the police over a drugs test in pre-season. Now's his chance to pay back the club by providing solid back up to Chris and Teerasil. The latter should especially appreciate the extra muscle up front, as he was so often isolated and hustled off the ball in 2011. He's not just about the brawn though, a fully fit Kone sure as heck knows how to find the net himself, too.
Most likely to: Scare opposition defenders.

Choe Kum-Chol - Striker "Choe Kum"
Details here.

Teerasil Dangda - Striker, "Teerasil"
Nothing has changed. This guy is still pure class.
Most likely to: Show the great technique he has.



Other players that might play a role:
Piyachart - full back, loaned to BEC Tero all last season.
Mongkol Namnuad - midfielder signed from Thai Port.
Diarra Ali - defender out on loan to Suphanburi because of the new foreign players rule. Can be recalled any time.
Bobouacar Issofou - winger, my "will he or won't he?" player of 2011, now loaned out and in a similar conundrum to Ali.
Santhi Chaiyaphruk - utility player, signed from Pattaya and loaned out midway through last season.

******


Photo credits:  Jirawat mooinblack 66818053470  except Kawin (affsuzukicup.com) and Nattaporn (shutterstock.com)

Muangthong United 0 Buriram PEA 0 - FA Cup final report and review

Why we love Thai football (© mooinblack)

The line up was notable for its absentees. Kawin (GK), Kayem (DF), Ali (DF), Nattaporn (Capt, DF), Pitchipong (MD), Siaka (MD), Datsakorn (MD), Buntao (MD), Arromsowa (AM), Fowler (FW), Teerasil (ST). That line-up should indicate the gameplan: three at the back, pack the midfield.

Missing were Panupong (injured hip muscle) and Christian (ankle still injured?). In that wonderful thing we call hindsight, Christian's absence may just have been the deciding factor in this contest.

There's never been more than one goal's difference in any MTU V PEA encounter and, amazingly, we have never scored past them. None of that would change tonight and the game was very typical of Thai football in both its positives and negatives. Moments of skill and breakaway football were matched in frequency by players of both teams throwing themselves on the turf and rolling in agony before jumping to their feet when they get the free kick or yellow card for the opponent they wanted. Sad.

Teerasil, Pornsai (sub) and Fowler each came agonisingly close for the Quilins over the course of the two hour battle while Buriram hit a rut of missed chances that were staggering even by Thai football standards. But the bulk of the play went Buriram's way because our attempt to pack the midfield backfired slightly. PEA's two Franks exploited the space in our final third with their pace and diagonal movement. (Ironically, it reminded of the days when Yaya, Kone and Siaka terrorised defences in the same way.) Although Ali and Kayem matched the two Franks for speed, it allowed PEA's midfield too much opportunity to storm down the middle of our defence and test Kawin.

Yet we held on, thanks in no small part to Kawin (more on him later) and the game went to extra time. It looked to be heading for penalties - probably our best chance - when Buriram scored via the smaller Frank, and what an excellent goal it was. Sadly, within two minutes of Frank hitting the net, no less than three Buriram players were rolling in the floor in agony, only to recover, as if by magic, shortly after. Thai football has come so far in two years, why is this behaviour allowed to hold it back? We piled forward but the sense of panic mixed with fatigue - borne of 240 minutes of football in four days - made the goal unlikely and it never came.



So it came to pass that for the second year in a row we lost the TFA Cup final deep in extra time. Credit to Buriram who were the better team. In Matt's podcast he mentioned new standards have been set.

In my preview I stated this match might be symbolic of the growing dominance of the two Thai giants. I feel that's been vindicated. PEA's dominance of the season could be wrapped up with a treble win in two weeks, yet every time they slug it out with MTU goals are rare, late and followed by stalling. These two teams are clearly so closely matched that a couple of key signings (or a return of Christian) for Muangthong and the additional ACL fixture load for PEA could tilt the balance next season. As MTU fans know well, winning the trophies is the comparatively easy part. But for now, PEA have earned the double and only Thai Port - with their potentially demoralised squad owed about 3 months of salary - stand between them and a historic treble.

It would be nice to think that we could now sit back, take stock and learn from our mistakes. But thanks to the utter imbeciles at the TFA we still have two meaningless (for us) fixtures to play before we can afford ourselves the luxury of preparing for the, ahem, 2012 season. Moreover, one of those fixtures is against struggling Sriracha, obliging us to play a full strength side.

Man of the Match

Applaud this man

Three contenders here but anyone who saw the extra time period will surely know the name I'm about to type; Kawin Thamasatchanan was an absolute colossus tonight and was the only reason we lost by one goal instead of five or six. It wasn't just about saves either, this young goalie commands his defence like a seasoned veteran and has the heart, professionalism and motivation to go as far he wants in this sport. If anyone doubted me when I said this was Asia's best goalie, do they still doubt me now?

I should also mention two other names. First, Diarra Ali who was presumably the late replacement for Panupong. I was worried about the still fairly raw defender marking either of PEA's Franks but he did very well and even under constant pressure he never gave away a penalty or had any 'red mist' moments as young and excited defenders so often do.

Secondly, Robbie Fowler. I've been critical of him recently, so it's only fair I mention his work rate and passion in this game. Robbie lasted the entire 120 minutes and showed his quality with some excellent flick-ons and movement that displayed his rich experience. It was also encouraging to see him call out the time-wasting and other nonsense when it went on. If more players did this, it wouldn't be so damn easy to get away with. I'd still rather Robbie retired from playing at the end of this season (if it ever comes!) and I'm still far from sure about his management credentials, but he gave it 101% in this clash .

And so the de-facto end of this season is here and we finish on a bitter note.
It hurts like hell but what's done is done. Now it's time to look ahead. Let's get the pointless games done, let's enjoy the lighter fixture load next season. Let's learn from our mistakes by giving Robbie a chance (and hope he wants and takes it) to use his contacts, splash the cash, sign two or three top class players to compliment the brilliant players we have already like Kawin, Datsakorn, Siaka, Teerasil and Panupong. Let's continue to bring up fantastic youngsters like Kayem, Ali and Arthit, let's have the fans put all the "glory hunting" BS in the bin by turning up in force for every game after a trophy-less season. Let's watch the building for the biggest and best stadium in Thailand start to take hold. Most of all, let's get two-time TPL champions MTU back to the top where we belong.

"By the way, your salary is win-related"

Photo credits: MTU N-Zone, mooinblack (Jirawat Srikong), afzsuzukicup.com

The passion........the passion....

New contracts

From the OS:

Muangthong United on Wednesday have reached an agreement to extend a five-year contract each with their six players including Nataporn Panrit, Datsakorn Thonglaow, Panupong Wongsa, Teerasil Dangda, Kawin Thamsatchanan as well as Dagno Siaka for the club’s long-term plan to improving its standart to the continental level.

The chief exclusive of Siamsport Syndicates Company Limited Pongsak Pholanan, the firm who owned the Thai Premier League defending champions revealed that, : “Our main propose to extend contract with these players is the long-term plans for the club to be the top-team of Thailand as well as the Asian continent in the near future, and it would be the guarantee that all six players will belong with us for long time and it also showing that Muangthong United are the professional football club which paying attention to all of our players. I believed that these players have potentials to lead us to the success surely.”

Kilins’ Deputy Chairman Wiluck Lohtong added that : “the contract extending with all of six players have approved by the unanimous resolution from our board of director as well as the staff coaches who want to see all of this players leading this club to meet our long-term goal. Moreover, some of these players have joined with us since we play in the Division 2 and 1. Finally, I can confirmed that, we are still looking to strengthen our squad by signing another top-players soon.”

The report suggested that, Muangthong United have splashed the budget to extend contract with all of six players for around 25 million baht (833,333 USD).

Of course this doesn't guarantee any of the guys will stay out their contract but it does rack up the prices for them, and there are still a lot of clubs sniffing around Kawin. It's also a very good sign of ambition. The only name I noticed missing from a 'wish list' of our top players is Christian.

Muangthong United 0 Buriram PEA 0 - report

This match report has a password. Anyone who wants to read it and doesn't know the password, just drop me a line - email, PM, telephone or whatever. Don't worry I won't be making a habit of this Inspector Gadget type stuff.

read the match report

Muangthong United 2 TOT CAT FC 0 - report

****ed if I know what happened, Watson!

It was strange right from the start. Impact Centre's most popular event, the Thailand Motor Show, created evil tailbacks that saw many fans arriving after half time. My taxi driver wisely refused to go too near Muang Thong and told me that: "Mai mee TOT loi", though I couldn't understand the reason he gave. He was right though, I counted a grand total of three (count 'em) TOT shirts in the away end at kick off. I kid you not.

The line up

The team was Kawin (GK), Kayem (LB), Arthit (I think, RB), Wongsa (CB), Nattaporn (Capt, CB), Datsakorn (MD), Siaka (AM), Pitchipong (MD), Issoufau (LW), Christian (RW), Teerasil (ST). No Zesh, no Ahnon.

With half the crowd still stuck in traffic, the kickoff was subdued. TOT looked every bit the side short on confidence and pre-season team building they were. MTU had a free kick within the first five minutes for which every single TOT player dropped back to defend, all but two of them inside their own box. Seconds later, Pitchipong was mauled down by a challenge in which a TOT player had either leg wrapped around Pitchipong on opposite sides. Pitchipong gave a genuine yell of pain as he went down and like most fans I screamed for a red but the ref who was perfectly positioned gave....a free kick and no more. I put it down to a reluctance to effectively lose the match for TOT so early on, but the lack of even a yellow was strange.

MTU went ahead not long after when an excellent dummy, turn and through ball by Dagno found Christian who was one-on-one with time to spare. Gordon Strachan once said only great strikers can keep calm enough to finish off a chance which they have enough time to think about. I guess the flame-haired legend must rate Christian then, as he finished perfectly. One-nil.

It was not long after the goal things got strange. MTU scored at least four goals in this match that to me, looked perfectly legal. We also had two players put through on goal that could have scored but had to stop for the whistle. The first goal disallowed was Christian’s. The second event was a very well timed run by Issofuao that put him clean through. The first goal was disallowed for reasons I don't know by the ref, the second was flagged offside.

Teerasil was tripped, nothing happened.

The ref continued a series of bizarre decisions. On more than one occasion it seemed to be random whistle blowing whenever MTU had the ball. Several tugs, raised elbows and shirt pulls by TOT players went totally unnoticed whereas MTU players were not only penalised every time someone threw themselves down, but also received lectures. Curiouser still, the linesman to the right side of the n-zone called the game perfectly in my opinion, it was the ref and the other linesman performing the surrealism. The last ten minutes of this half were some of the strangest I've seen since Buriram away last season, as any possession in the midfield was stopped by the ref's whistle.

Things threatened to boil over but half time rescued us from the tension. Yet the second half started in a similar way. Christian beat his marker who - while on the ground after missing his challenge - clearly raised both feet and caught Chris with his studs. Chris was hurt but pressed on until the ref blew his whistle.....and gave a free kick to TOT. By now Rob and Calisto couldn't keep quiet and tensions raised again. Things calmed for about ten minutes until another incident at the other end that sparked a scuffle that even the TOT keeper ran up to get involved in, though to his credit he seemed to be telling his players to back off. Credit to Kawin who stayed calm as a cucumber in his own area and looked like he was thinking about how many packs of stickers to buy.

Things were starting to look like they could really boil over and perhaps that managed to stop whatever was causing the bizarre decisions in the game because things calmed down. Still protecting a one-nil lead, MTU passed the ball around and though - as Pattaya fan Glenn tipped me off - TOT had "lots of huff and puff", they had little more. As they were forced to push forward, they created one or two moments of danger but squandered both chances. One striker did attempt a feeble dive that the ref ignored.

No he wasn't booked

Now we were allowed out of our own half, we created a few chances ourselves and finally got rewarded when a two-footed challenge on Teerasil without winning the ball gave the ref little choice but to award a late penalty.In his one notable contribution to the match, Kone Muhammed picked up and kicked the ball into the stands in anger. The linesman saw it and did nothing. Dagno did the honours. Two-nil.

The ref gave us one last memento as a TOT player lost possession near our box and he (the ref) blew and pointed to another player nowhere near the action who was laid on the ground, awarding TOT a free kick, to no avail.

In such David Lynch-like circumstances, it's hard to assess our performance here, but I feel we are still a long way from what we were last season. There's one bright point - as I've been critical of Issoufou Boubacar recently I must say he looked better today. Rather than trying to be too clever, he concentrated on what a simple winger should do and got behind his man and crossed the ball - which he did well more than once. He also tries to win the ball back when he loses it.

But as a whole we looked a little rocked from changes on and off the pitch and lack the intensity of attacking and decision making we had last year. At our core though, we are still almost exactly the same players that came so close to four trophies last year and although it's going to be mightily tough, a win against Buriram PEA next week could change the mindset of both camps quite quickly. If not, then it's probably going to be a season of rebuilding for the future.

Man of the match must again go to Nattaporn Pannarit who - admittedly up against a team that has yet to score - lead by example by giving one hundred percent and never shying away from responsibility.

Photo credits - yep, you guessed it, Jirawat Srikong. If there's a better photographer in Thailand, I'd like to meet him or her.

Press conference and warm-up

Thanks again to the excellent Jirawat Srikong, here are some pictures of the two events of today:

Again, thanks to Jirawat Srikong, owner and taker of these pictures.

Kawin plays in 2-2 draw

'thong drew 2-2 with Chai Nat FC in a game that saw Kawin Thamasatchanan return to competition in the second half.

This was the only good news however in a game that MTU fans were very critical of. Coach Carlos is already experiencing criticism from a group of fans not known for being harsh.
Carlos has the chance to quickly redeem himself in the next game however as the serious business now begins - an ACL qualifier away to Sriwicha (Indonesia) on Feb 12th.

Kawin is back in full training

Thanks to the person who took the video.

Siam Sport Awards

Yes, yes there is a conflict of interests in MTU's owners giving out awards, but in my humble opinion I can honestly say the only awards I would dispute are two that we didn't win!

Winners -

Best coach - Pattaya United Coach

Best fans - Buriram PEA fans

Best Foreign Player - Dagno Siaka

Best player - Datsakorn Thonglao

Most popular player -   Suchao Nutnum

Best young player  - Kawin Thamasatchanan

Best Club - Muangthong United

A farewell party?

L to R - Dagno, Datsakorn, Kawin, Ronnachai (I think)

 Thanks to the person who took the pictures.

Snapshots - times of change

How many can you name?

The big man gets his award - at least he's going out strong

Note the water spray - the grass is growing rapidly.

Thanks to the person who took the photos and sent them to me.

Back to training

A video of MTU's first training session
Not much to report: Coulibly, Dagno and Christian all absent as they have been given a little more time to return from their home countries.

Most players profess they stayed home and watched TV, spent time with friends, etc. Kawin said his injury is expected to take another month to heal but he is regularly seeing a specialist.

*************************
'thong have signed a shirt manufacturing deal (I think) with Grand Sport worth more than ten million baht, a record for Thailand.

Goalie gossip

www.bangkokunitedfc.com

TLO reports that MTU are in negotiations with two goalkeepers. One is Weera Koedpudsa from Bangkok United, the other is the goalkeeper from Songkhla.

More than one BKU fan has told me that BKU would've been relegated far earlier last season without Weera, who won their player of the season award. Songkhla's Witsanusak Kaewruang was rated as D1's best goalie last season, though it is understood he would be second choice at MTU until he gets some experience. By the way, his name translates on Google as: "good anal skills Wikipedia Phitsanu Fri Sak glass glow"

Kawin is still with MTU and recovering from injury.

TPL awards

Via, the Chonburi site , here are the TPL 2010 awards:

Coach of the Year : Rene Desaeyere  - Muang Thong Utd
Goalkeeper of the Year : Kawin Thamsatchanan - Muang Thong Utd
Defender of the Year : Nattaporn Panrit - Muang Thong Utd
Midfielder of the Year : Therdsak Chaiman - Chonburi
Forward of the Year : Sarayoot Chaikamdee - Thai Port
TPL Top Scorer : Ludovick Takam - Pattaya Utd
Newcomer of the Year : Purithat Jarigarnon - Chonburi

Rumours that Rene promised to flatten everyone at the TFA if he didn't get the award have been greatly exaggerated!
Congratulations to all winners!

2010 Player review

A look at how MTU players performed this season in the view of your humble blogger.


Goalkeepers

Kawin Thamasatchanan
I've said it already and I'll say it again: Kawin is the best goalkeeper - probably the best player - in Thailand. This young number twenty-six is definitely the top shot-stopper around, but what takes him to that other level is the command, positioning and timing this man has for such a young goalie. On more than one occasion, Kawin has adjusted the defensive wall by a couple of crucial inches, collected a swerving corner kick or reached a long through-ball outside the area just a split-second before his opponent. Throughout the marathon 2010 season his concentration never lagged and throughout the "Man United" hype he has remained friendly and humble with fans.
The saddest thing about his recent injury is that it's probably caused by the excess number of games dumped on Muangthong through the year. Whether that injury changes his future plans remains to be seen. What is certain is Kawin will always be a very popular figure with Quilins fans.
Season rating - 10/10

Thongsak Phanphipat
The experienced head of 'Chai' Phanpipat took some criticism when he stood between the posts during the difficult close period of the season for Muangthong United, but to blame him for some of those poor results is just plain wrong. 'Chai' also played in goal for crushing wins against Thai Port, Bangkok United and Sisaket. When results faltered, he was by no means the only - or most - to blame. Moreover, he put in a very sure and steady performance in the FA Cup final.
Rating - 6.5/10

Defenders:

Jetsada Jitsawad
It was the proverbial game (or season) of two halves for Jetsada. He began the season as club captain and was considered the most reliable centre-back by many fans. It stayed this way for about two-thirds of the season until a string of rather strange performances and other factors caused him to be dropped. He was recalled for some late games but it just wasn't the same. Without having any inside knowledge I'd be surprised if Jetsada was with the club come the start of the 2011 season. (Edit - this article was typed before Jet signed for BEC Tero).
Rating - 7/10

Nattapron Pannarit:
Although initially rated as "the second defender" behind Jetsada or Panupong, Nattaporn has proven himself one of the most consistent and dedicated centre-backs in the TPL. Never afraid to get in where it hurts and never one to complain, 'Oat' proved his worth by taking on the captain's armband whenever he was asked. He may be an inch slower and a little lower in the jump than his defensive partners, but you can always rely on him.
Rating - 7/10


Panupong Wongsawa: 
He started as, arguably, the second-highest rated defender of the squad but throughout the season, Wongsawa grew in confidence and mental stature, ultimately proving himself the most reliable defender of the club, arguably of Thailand. He's sharp in the area, tactically aware and showed no fear when faced with some physically intimidating opponents in the AFC cup. We can only hope this won't be another case of another club reaping rewards from the excellent player produced by a great attitude and MTU coaches.
Rating - 9/10

Pakasit Saensook:
A regular choice in the opening half of the season, Pakasit was most unfortunate to lose his place to Keawprom when he became sidelined with an injury. Although not the fastest or most offensive-minded of right-backs, his positioning and crossing was of a good standard. With the departure of Keawprom, he can perhaps take heart from the return to form of teammate Pitchipong who reclaimed his place in the squad in impressive fashion when his replacement (Sylla) moved on.
Rating - 6/10


Jakkaphon Keawprom:
Jak probably caused me more headaches than any other player last season. His early days as right back exposed some worrying positioning and some gifted passes to opponents, yet for all my bawling I could see there was some hope for the young man from the north, and his determination was never in doubt. Sure enough, over time he became a tough tackler, good passer and a decent offensive asset, if not the paciest or most powerful. It's a shame to see him go but no doubt Rob and Rene have a replacement in mind.
Rating - 8/10

Piyachart Thamaphan: 
Although he rarely stood out as a star player, Piyachart quite possibly featured in more games than any other player in the squad. A good worker and a decent crosser - though he still needs to practise his corners - Piyachart is clearly the left-back of choice and is MTU through and through. I hope he gets some well deserved rest and remains a Muangthong player for next year.
Rating - 7/10


Midfielders 

Pitchipong Choeichiu:
Despite being a regular player in the previous season, Pitchipong found himself frozen out for the earlier part of the 2010 season. A spate of injuries, suspensions and transfers saw him make a return halfway through and he took his chance with relish, even receiving a MOTM on this blog in the epic 2-0 AFC Cup victory.
Rating - 7/10

Piyapol Bhuntao:
A bit-part player who featured mainly in league cup matches or as a substitute. Steady but nothing more.
Rating - 5/10

Amorn Thummanan 
Pacey and skillful player that can play central or wide. However he does seem to drift in and out of games which may be why he is used more often as a sub. Perhaps he'll find consistency next year, then he'll be a real threat.
Rating - 5.5/10 

Coulibly Abdoul:
Sylla's replacement was expected to take his time to settle. He didn't really need it. The young African almost instantly looked comfortable in his role. He resembles Peter Crouch in that his thin, lanky frame always looks fragile yet seems to come out of every fifty-fifty challenge or sliding tackle looking stronger. His ability to cover as a defender and his aerial goal-scoring makes this guy a potential gem in the "next generation" of Africans fans will see next season when we will watch a lot more of him.
Rating 6/10

Dagno Siaka:
Featuring in almost every match of the season, Dagno's contribution can be summarised by his receipt of the "Player of the Year" award he collected after the FA Cup Final. "Danny-O" is fast, powerful, sharp, confident, fit and motivated. The attacking-midfielder's goal tally was boosted by the number of penalties he coolly slotted home, including a pivotal spot-kick at home against Chonburi.
Rating - 10/10

Datsakorn Thonglao:
Datsakorn arrived with some expectation on his shoulders as a high profile Thai player signed for relatively big money. The jury took some time to reach their verdict on "Goh" until he scored a screamer against Thai Port early on in the campaign. From there he never looked back as his mesmerising long-range thunderbolts were usually matched by his work-rate and short passes. Not only were his goals always impressive to watch, but they always seemed to crop up when they were most needed, such as away to Bangkok United, at home in the AFC campaign or, as mentioned, away to Thai Port.
Many of this year's squad have already agreed deals with other clubs. The Quilins' ability to defend their title next season may yet hinge on Datsakorn's decision.
Rating - 10/10

Narongchai Vachiraban:
Signed to big fanfare (and big money) from Police United, Narongchai Vachiraban has really yet to prove himself. Most often featuring as a sub, his vaunted sharpness in front of goal has yet to show itself in MTU colours. It may be partly down to a change of role - the midfielder has played deeper for MTU than Police - and with luck he may discover his form and favoured place on the park next season in a new look line up.
Rating - 5/10

Kavem:
Played a few games - mainly in the Toyota Cup - and impressed a few fans if not yours truly. Perhaps he'll have more of a chance to shine next season.
(Edit: at the time of typing I didn't realise Kavem is only seventeen years old. No doubt he will improve greatly over time.)
Rating 5/10 (not really enough games to for him to impress)

Forwards 

Teerasil Dangda
The spearhead of 'The Quilins' attacking line has been this big, lanky target man in the number 10 shirt. Two-footed and still deadly with his back to goal, his goalscoring record speaks for itself. Yet the number of flick-ons, headers and pressure put on defenders by his smart positioning was the root cause of our purple patch early in the season when many teams got demolished at the Thunderdome. I personally felt the whole team was weaker when he was played on the wing towards the end of the season.
Let's hope like crazy he stays on next season.
Rating - 10/10

Ronnachai Rungsiyo
Regular readers of this blog were probably bored senseless by my calls for this man to be given a run in the first team throughout last season. You can't blame me though - if you saw his excellent first touch and clinical finishing such as the game away to Army FC, you'd say it too. But when the chances did came, he didn't seem mentally right. A few times he seemed to be relying on body-checking defenders off the ball or playing one-touch passes  simply to look good. The transfer to Tero came as no surprise, but if they can succeed in getting his head right, they'll have an excellent striker in their ranks.
Rating - 5/10

Kone Muhammed
A thorn in the side of any defender. Kone's pace, power and deceptive footwork combined brilliantly with his friend and teammate Dagno. The two players proving so similar in style that opposition players were often exhausted by them. A consistent stream of goals proves the case in point. Also covered well in other positions when asked.
Rating - 8.5/10

Christian Yao Koukou
The new boy signed from a Belgian side was a quick hit with fans. Like his fellow Africans he had pace and large stride, but his footwork was slightly more skill-based and his first touch and dribbling was that much more deadly for it. At home on the wing or in a more central role, his youthful enthusiasm kept him consistent throughout an exhausting season. If only he could become more determined and show a little more mental maturity on and off the pitch he could become a respectable top flight player in Europe. That learning curve may be about to start soon.
Rating 9/10 

Theratheep 'Leesaw' Winothai
A high profile winger and forward who lost form early on in the season. The reasons for that loss of form depend on who you ask but before going on 'loan' to BEC Tero, he left us with a glimpse of the player of old by scoring a delightful last-gasp winner at home to Thai Port. Now a permanent Tero player.
Rating - 5.5/10 


Ibrahim Kanoute
Signed alongside Coulibly Abdoul midway through the campaign, Ibrahim had to wait a little longer for his debut but boy did he take the chance when it came! In the few games he played last season the Ivorian showed he is almost as fast as Yaya and almost as tricky as Christian. That's a heck of a combination and he's still young.
Recent transfer furore has confused the situation surrounding this forward. I'll be very disappointed if he is not an MTU player come next season.
Rating - 6/10
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All picture credits: www.mtutd.tv