Eka were very unlucky to lose this competitive friendly that was played out in an open and attacking style.
Thai Port played at least some of their first team despite their TPL schedule already being underway. And it was Port that took the lead very early on when number 28 (I think) rounded Eka's reserve 'keeper and held off two defenders to finish.
For a while it looked like Nonthaburi were outclassed as Port controlled the midfield and Eka resorted to long balls to their two African forwards. But things changed quickly and Nonthaburi began to create the majority of the chances. No. 17 Sathit and no.16 Gidya Choosing began to pressure Port's first choice goalie into some quality saves. Before half time, a superb through ball to Choosing played the lanky forward through on goal but Gidja still had to hold off two challenges to finish neatly on his left foot and slot home the equaliser.
The second half was mainly controlled by Nonthaburi but a low cross by a Port winger was not cleared and a quick rebound past first choice goalieManop saw Port restore their lead. Despite all Eka's possession, the game finished 1-2.
So after three friendlies against a team from each division, Nonthaburi have looked the equal against all of them. Moreover the squad look fit, committed and confident. Today saw another strong performance from the no.15 farang trialist, no. 16 Choosing and the right back in shirt no.23. I'm going to stick my neck out and say that Eka will finish in the top three of the Bangkok table and upset a higher league team in a cup game.
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