After missing a penalty earlier in the match, the Brazilian was able to use his tall frame to head-in the game winner from an Anusak Laosangthai cross late in the second half.
The Ronins were able to stem off late attacks from Pattaya United as Phuket goalkeeper Adisak Doungsri made a few impressive saves to secure victory in front of a home crowd.
"It's a good start for us," said Head Coach Stefano "Teco" Cugurra, "I think if we have a little bit better finishing we can put 2 or 3 against Patttaya. But 1-0 is enough for us today."
The win comes after an undefeated pre-season where they also drew against Thai Premier League side Chonburi FC, a team that will compete in the AFC Champions League this year.
"I think we had good preparation. This was important because we have 17 new players, so sometimes it takes time for them to know each other." Teco said, "[The players] have good tactical understanding so I'm happy about that."
Next up, The Ronin will play their first match in the 2014 Toyota League Cup against TPL-side Sisaket FC on March 1 at Surakul Stadium, kick-off time to be decided. The match will be a homecoming of sorts for Sisaket Head Coach Paniphol Kerdyaem, who coached Phuket FC last year before resigning mid-year.