A hugely controversial decision spelled disaster for Rajpracha as Chula United took a one goal victory to land the visitors back in a heavy relegation struggle.
The game opened up awkwardly on the astro pitch with the clouds above threatening to open at any moment. Rajpracha struggled to find any movement on the strange surface and gave the ball away softly far too many times. They also tried the same long ball tactics against Chula - who have a far greater average player height - that failed so miserably in the 1-6 drubbing against the 'Pink Panthers' at home. However the game was goalless at half time.
In the second half Raj responded to what was obviously a good team talk and began their own passing game. Two or three golden chances went begging including one shot that was desperately cleared by a diving Chula defender.
However the deadlock appeared broken when Raj's number 26 (I think) Noppadom caught a rebound on his chest and smashed home into an open goal. However, about three seconds later the linesman raised his flag and indicated handball. Players and fans were shellshocked and within a minute Chula had taken the free kick, moved downfield and scored with a low effort that appeared to have 'keeper Yen Emile blindsided.
Stunned Rajpracha players rallied and continued to apply some pressure, forcing one Chula defender to overcommit and get himself sent off, but the game ended shortly after.
Ugly scenes followed as Raj players surrounded the officials and some Raj fans - including myself I'm ashamed to say - approached the tunnel to voice their mind and swap insults with some Chula fans who were enjoying it.
It didn't do us any credit of course, but I can understand the reaction as this was a crucial game that could play a pivotal role in Raj's season and the linesman was the only person in the stadium that saw the handball. Let's hope to see a video of the goal to determine if he was right.
However, Raj must now move on, ask themselves why they didn't control the game from earlier on and look for three crucial points against bottom side Narathaiwat next week.
Rajpracha starting side:
1. Yen Emile
4. Wisarut DF
23. Kittipong DF
19.Pontawee DF
32.Thanapon Phao DF
28. Phairot DF
7. Deeprom MD
27. Pichit MD
10. Seksit MD
26. Noppadom ST
25. Thanachot FW
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