FAT calls for decorum during qualifier against Aussies at Rajamangala on Nov 15

>> The Football Association of Thailand (FAT) is seeking cooperation of all fans in observing restraint while attending the national team’s match against Australia at Rajamangala National Stadium on Nov 15.

It will be Thailand’s fifth Group B match of the 12-team final phase of the Asian zone qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia.

The country is in a state of mourning following the passing away of His Majesty the King on Oct 13 following which the Thai government sought cooperation of all parties to abstain from holding any ‘entertainment activities’ for a month.

Although the match against Australia is scheduled outside the official 30-day mourning period, the FAT is requesting that appropriate decorum is maintained at the game, keeping in view the sentiments of the nation.

The FAT yesterday issued a guideline for spectators attending the Asian qualifier for Russia 2018.

It stipulates that dressing for both male and female spectators shall be in polite fashion with suggested colours being white, black, gray and, preferably, with no patterns on them.

Although the away jersey of the Thai national team is red, the colour is strictly prohibited.

The guidelines bar the fans from using cheering equipment — namely drums, trumpets, flags, megaphones, whistles and cheering sticks — both in and outside the stadium.

Spectators are not allowed to display any symbols and carrying all kinds of banners, posters or placards inside the venue is also prohibited.

Singing songs along with any joyful activities both inside and in the surrounding areas of the stadium is strictly prohibited.

The FAT initially wanted to play the match at a neutral venue and had sent a request to both Fifa and the Asian Football Confederation to seek a change in the venue for the match.

However, FAT president Pol Gen Somyot Poompunmuang revealed this week that Australia were keen to play the match as scheduled.

Following the King’s passing, the FAT cancelled all remaining domestic matches.

The decision gave SCG Muang Thong United, who led the standings, the Thai League title.

League Cup finalists Muang Thong and Buriram United were declared joint champions.