The improved pitch conditions were a welcome change, allowing Phuket to showcase the fluid, possession-based style they aspire to. When in full flow, they are a delight to watch - a high-pressing, slick-passing team who move the ball with pace and purpose.
However, Nara United, marshalled brilliantly in defence by the tenacious Argentine, Juan, proved to be formidable opponents. Their forward line, led by Adam, Caio, and the ironically named Phuket, posed a constant threat, particularly down the right flank.
The early stages belonged to Nara until Phuket found their rhythm. Game and Petch, the wide players, pushed forward, causing problems for the opposition fullbacks, while Keng, at right-back, made a compelling case for retaining his place with excellent link-up play and distribution.
The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when a Game free-kick from the left was met by a superb diving header from Bank.
Unfortunately, the 3:30pm kick-off in the scorching sun took its toll on both teams, highlighting fitness levels that still require improvement. Phuket, in particular, dropped deeper instead of pressing, allowing Nara more space. The visitors capitalised on this, with Adam’s shot deflecting off Bee into the goal.
Bank had further opportunities to restore Phuket’s lead but was unable to convert.
The second half saw Phuket introduce Bebe and Torky, who linked up well with Bank but were perhaps guilty of overplaying at times. Nara twice hit the woodwork on swift counter-attacks that exposed left-back Preuk, who was later replaced by Ohm.
The game then became increasingly scrappy, with several strong challenges going unpunished by the referee, who ultimately required a police escort off the pitch at full-time.
Phuket’s central midfield appeared to be their weakest link, with passes from the flanks to Kla and Min frequently misplaced, leading to turnovers. Overall, though, Phuket showed greater spirit than in previous matches and deserved their point. The presence of experienced coach and club owner Russ Horsley on the touchline rather than the stands undoubtedly had a positive impact. While work remains to be done, particularly on fitness and midfield control, the team can travel to Phattalung next week with ambitions of securing a win and climbing the table.
A crowd of close to 1,000, including a sizeable contingent from Nara United and over 300 ‘Farangs’ created an encouraging and diverse atmosphere. Hopefully, this will continue to grow throughout the season.
Man of the Match: 99 – ‘Bee’ Anawin (GK). The diminutive goalkeeper was outstanding, making numerous crucial saves. His distribution was also highly impressive, often initiating Phuket’s best-attacking moves.
The result leaves Phuket Andaman FC in 10th place in the table following two defeats and a draw.
PAFC Formation: 4-2-3-1
PAFC Line Up:
99 - ‘Bee’ Anawin (GK)
66 - ‘Keng’ Patapee
4 - ‘Bass’ Akkharadech
3 - ‘Mark’ Rungsak
26 - ‘Preuk’ Kitipat
27 - ‘Min’ Kittinan
41 - ‘Kla’ Patapee
17 - ‘Game’ Satawat
21 - ‘Ball’ Muhammad
8 - ‘Petch’ Chinnatan
9 - ‘Bank’ Sarod (Goal 13”)
Substitutes:
46 - ‘Pang’ Mumadirfan
6 - ‘Not’ Kanin (on 73”)
7 - ‘Rahman’ Abdelrahman
77 - ‘Bebe’ Coulibary (on 45”)
18 - ‘Prem’ Saekoy
25 - ‘Chao Pan’Kwanchai
79 - ‘Ohm’ Athagorn (on 73”)
29 - ‘Pong’ Pokpong (on 84”)
41 - ‘Phum’’ Sathaporn
11 - ‘Torky’Abdelrahman (on 49”)
47 - Wuttichai
Next Match: Sunday Oct 6 away at Phattalung FC, 6pm kick-off.