Navy sink Dolphins in local derby

Pattaya United slipped closer to the Division 1 relegation zone last weekend after falling to a 1-0 defeat at promotion chasing Siam Navy in Sattahip on Saturday, Oct. 18.

The hosts took the lead in the 15th minute when Brazilian midfielder Felipe Ferreira burst through the center of the United defence and calmly chipped the ball past the advancing Sangkla and into the United net.

The Dolphins continued to struggle up front and rarely threatened the opposition goal during a disappointing first half performance.  They came out with more vigour in the second period but were unlucky when Khana’s shot cannoned off the top of the Navy crossbar and out to safety in the 66th minute.

Pattaya United and Siam Navy FC are shown in action during their Thai Division 1 fixture at the Navy Stadium in Sattahip, Saturday, Oct 18.

United thought they had salvaged a point from the game in the last minute of normal time as Cristiano Lopes’ header rebounded off the underside of the bar and crossed the goal line, but the score was ruled out as the Brazilian was flagged for being in an offside position.

Pattaya need to rediscover their scoring touch when they entertain Roi Et at the Nongprue Stadium this coming Saturday.  Kick-off is scheduled for 4 p.m.

At the top of the Premier League standings, the season looks set for an exciting conclusion as Chonburi remain just 2 points behind leaders Buriram United with 4 matches left to play.  The Sharks rebounded from their midweek loss to Army by defeating Sisaket 2-1 at the Chonburi Stadium and also took advantage of Buriram’s surprising home 2-2 draw with Osotspa.  Chonburi’s winning goal came via a 48th minute close range header from midfielder Bavorn Tapla.

The Sharks were due to play away at Osotspa on Wednesday this week and will face Bangkok United in Chonburi this coming Sunday at 7 p.m.  Buriram by contrast have an away fixture at Bangkok United followed by a home game against Chainat.