Chonburi hope to catch up with leaders

Third-ranked Chonburi hope to close the gap on Thai League 1 leading duo Bangkok United and Buriram United when they travel to newcomers Nongbua Pitchaya today.

Bangkok United are one point ahead of Buriram United who have a game in hand with both scheduled to play their matches tomorrow.

On paper, Chonburi, who are four points off the pace, are favourites against Nongbua.

But the Sharks cannot underestimate the promoted side who are strong at home thanks in part to their Brazilian striker Hamilton, the current top scorer with 11 goals.

Chonburi have their own dangerous attackers in Brazil’s Dennis Murillo and Thailand’s Worachit Kanitsribampen who have scored eight league goals each this term.

Chonburi also feature midfielder Faiq Bolkiah, who is dubbed the richest footballer in the world as he is a member of Brunei’s royal family.

Bolkiah made his Chonburi debut as a substitute in the team’s 1-1 draw with Muang Thong United last week.