Maybe it was because of the coach’s unusual line-up, or his choice of tactics. Or it could be that the team that didn’t perform to fans’ expectations. But I’m pretty sure the final straw was that last minute equaliser. Watching a win being snatched away like that can set anyone off.
But for me, this response from some fans was uncalled for. Some complained that since they had bought tickets, they had the right to criticise the coach and team’s performance – or lack thereof. But does it give them the right to demand the ouster of the coach?
This wasn’t the first time Phuket has seen a fan uprising against a coach: a few years ago, Surachai Jirasirichote tearfully announced his resignation in the middle of Surakul Stadium, after a defeat to Buriram FC.
Will this become Phuket FC’s norm, with unhappy fans pressuring the management to fire the coach after a bad result?
Chairman Pamuke has has stated previously that if Phuket FC weren’t in the top three by the time of the season break at the end of June, “a measure will be taken.”
I can understand some fans now screaming on Facebook for the coach to be fired now: I was tempted to do it myself.
But take a minute and really think about it: who is the better candidate right now? Who will step into the coach’s shoes and turn things around overnight? Alex Ferguson?
This is not an attempt to defend Coach Panipol: I was perplexed by his choice of players, and I witnessed Phuket’s poor performance on Saturday.
But a football team is, well, a team, and one man can not be held responsible for every mistake.
Next Wednesday, at home to Krabi FC, there will be no better time for Coach Paniphol to show that he has the team and the skills he needs to win.