Buriram looking to twist the knife in Port wound
Leaders Buriram United are expected to rub salt into the wounds of Port when they clash in Thai League 1 at Chang Arena today.
Champions Buriram are seen as heavy favourites against Port who conceded seven goals in their last two games.
Unbeaten Buriram, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Suphanburi on Saturday, are looking forward to returning to winning ways.
Buriram assistant manager Monsaek Teerapanont said yesterday: “The game against Suphanburi was a difficult one for us because they had a steely defence. To get a point from the match was not too bad.
“In every game we play, we aim to win and we are looking forward to welcoming Port. We don’t have any suspended player but defenders Andres Tunez and Naruebodin Weerawatnodom, who were injured in the previous match, need late fitness tests.
“We will use our strongest team against Port and our target remains the same — try winning every game.”
Port assistant coach Weerayut bin Adulrahman said: “Playing at Buriram United is always tough. We must forget the last game at the weekend when we lost 3-0 to Bangkok United at home. We must try to get at least a point from this game.”
Their attack will be led by Dragan Boskovic who will be supported by midfielder Nurul Sriyankem.
Port got off to a fast start this season but have been brought down to earth lately.
The 3-0 loss to Bangkok United followed a 4-2 setback at lowly Police Tero.
Surprise package PT Prachuap, who are four points behind Buriram, have a tricky assignment at Ratchaburi who are strong at home.
Pattaya will host Chonburi in the eastern derby. Both teams have 13 points each.
Pattaya manger Supat Un-thong said: “This is a derby match and will be an exciting game. We will do out best to beat our city rivals.”
Chonburi marketing and media director Jeerasak Chomthong said: “Pattaya always want to beat us. They don’t want to be placed below us.”
“But we also want to win.”
FIXTURES
5.45pm Ratchaburi v PT Prachuap, Buriram v Port 6pm Chainat v Navy, Sukhothai v Bangkok Glass 7pm Pattaya v Chonburi, Police Tero v Ubon UMT, Bangkok United v Nakhon Ratchasima
8pm Air Force v Chiang Rai, Muang Thong v Suphanburi
Standings