THE BIG KICK-OFF
2017 Thai League season starts today
>> SCG Muang Thong United begin the defence of their Thai League title today against a tough opponent and without three key players.
When the Kirins square off against Bangkok Glass, who finished third last season, away at Leo Stadium this evening, they will be missing their latest signings Celio Santos of Brazil, former South Korea international Lee Ho and Thai national team player Adisak Kraisorn.
Today’s opening day of the 2017 Thai League One sees five matches to be played while four matches are scheduled for tomorrow.
Bangkok Glass’ Australian coach Aurelio Vidmar, a former Socceroos player, believes his team stand a chance of upsetting Muang Thong provided his players can bring out their best.
“We have been preparing the team for many months and during the close season, we had several friendly matches,” said Vidmar.
“At the moment, Sarawut Masuk and Pichit Ketsaro are injured, but our captain Matt Smith is fit for the first game.
“We would have to keep our form consistent, not only against Muang Thong but throughout the season.
“I am pleased with the fitness of our players and it now depends on the players if they can bring out their best against Muang Thong.”
Muang Thong coach Totchtawan Sripan said: “We had good preparations. We did well against Sukhothai to win the Thailand Champions Cup and then also in the Lunar New Year event in Hong Kong.
“The first match is always difficult and it is an away match as well. Bangkok Glass use an artificial pitch which we have always found difficult to get used to.
“Our goal is to win the game and get three points.
“Our new player Celio Santos has spent less than a week with the team, so we might not use him against Bangkok Glass. Lee Ho is also not available for the opening game and Adisak Kraisorn is not fully fit.
“We will have to play at our best. If we want to retain the title, we must aim for three points in every game and think of winning every match.”
The first match of the season will kick off at 5.45pm today, pitting Port against Ratchaburi.
Ratchaburi assistant coach Somchai Maivilai said: “We are now ready for the new season.
“Port are a good team and we expect a tough game.”
Port coach Jadet Meelarp said: “We have the advantage of playing our first game at home. We will try to produce a good result.”
Four-time champions Buriram United will play their first match against Chonburi at home tomorrow, when last year’s runners-up Bangkok United will host Navy.
FIXTURES
Today
5.45pm — Port FC v Ratchaburi FC
6pm — Si Sa Ket FC v Ubon UMT
7pm — Bangkok Glass v Muang Thong; Suphanburi v Thai-Honda FC
8pm — Police Tero v Pattaya United
Tomorrow
6pm — Buriram v Chonburi; Chiang Rai v Super Power
7pm — Bangkok Utd v Navy; Sukhothai v Nakhon Ratchasima