The big talking point leading up to this match was would it start or wouldn’t it. There had been heavy rain since the early hours of the morning, and regardless of how good drainage is, that amount of rain has to result in a waterlogged pitch. It didn’t let anybody down. However, it was all hands to the pump, and it was agreed the game would be played. I must say, the game would never have gone ahead in the UK, but safety concerns here are not the same. I’ve seen several games in similar conditions in Thailand over the years.
The team continued to start with no Farangs in the starting 11. Krit was back in goal after injury. Jiradech was moved into centre half alongside Worrapat. Haritsadee was on the left wing. Arnon was the lone striker, with Panthakant playing behind him.
The game itself was a farce, with the ball unable to travel along the deck. Players were being tackled by puddles. Both sides worked really hard in such bad conditions, but football had very little to do with it. In a strange sort of way it was enjoyable.
Samut Songkhram took the lead about half way through the first half with a goal that Hua Hin strongly disputed claiming offside. Yes, they had players in offside positions, but they weren’t interfering with play.
Panthakant opened his Hua Hin City goal account a few minutes before half time, with a shot from close in. It stayed this way until half time.
Conditions at half time were so bad, neither team put their substitutes onto the pitch for a kick about. Instead, the half time entertainment came from the ground staff, squeegeeing water from the Southern end penalty area.
Then 2 more ground staff moved to the Northern penalty area with dust pans – this was hilarious. Akin to trying to bail out a sinking ship with thimbles.
Khun K then took command of the situation. He and 4 others, supervised by the Equipment Man, SK, ripped down an advertising hoarding, and used it as a giant squeegee to clear water from the penalty area. This team were definitely the headline act.
A couple of officials inspected the Southern end, and the farce was allowed to continue.
Early in the 2nd half, Panthakant scored a second.
Almost immediately, Samut Songkhram were awarded a free kick on the edge of the penalty area. It was skilfully converted in off the post, giving Krit no chance.
About 5 minutes later, Tossapon scored to make it 3-2 with a lovely shot from the edge of the penalty area. He also should have scored another, when having beaten the goalkeeper inside his own 6 yard area, he fell over his own feet.
Samut Songkhram piled a lot of pressure, but Hua Hin held on for 3 points.
The weather was the winner today, but 3 points are very welcome.
