Robson in Cancer Scare
It was revealed on Wednesday that the Thai national team coach Bryan Robson had a tumour removed from his throat on March 3rd in a Bangkok hospital. The announcement was made by Manchester United. The club still employs Robson as a ‘Global Ambassador’ and said that the 54-year-old will need further treatment in the future. The club statement went on to say that Robson will be able to continue with his twin roles for the time being. We can only wish him all the very best and hope that he can overcome his illness as quickly as possible.
AFC Cup Round-up
Two weeks ago, Chonburi claimed an away draw and Muangthong won comfortably at home in the AFC Cup. Those performances were reversed on Wednesday night as Muangthong drew in Singapore whilst Chonburi recorded a convincing home win. The Twin Qilins were 1-0 down in the island state but drew level through midfielder Pichitphong’s stunning long-range effort. Chonburi, meanwhile, turned on the style against Hong-Kong-based South China. The visitors featured former Manchester United star Nicky Butt in their starting line-up, but were no match for their Thai hosts. Natthapong Samana, Therdsak Chaiman (penalty) and Arthit Sunthornphit did the damage for the ruthless Sharks.
This Weekend
Another full programme of fixtures this weekend with three matches taking place in the capital. One of those is the derby game between Thai Port and Bangkok Glass on Sunday. Unfortunately, it won’t be the occasion it could have been as Thai Port fans have been banned from attending, as part of their punishment following recent crowd trouble at Pattaya. Weirdly Bangkok Glass fans are allowed to enter Thai Port's stadium at Khlong Toey, but BG management has advised fans to watch the match on a big screen at their own Leo Stadium in Pathum Thani.
Elsewhere, Army United will be looking to march on as they host Sisaket. The Soldiers have been the surprise package so far this season – both on the pitch with their fine performances, and off it with thousands of new fans turning up for home games – and they’ll undoubtedly be favourites to win on Saturday. Elsewhere in the capital (sort of) TOT host Pattaya at the Yamaha Stadium, Nonthaburi on Sunday. BEC-Tero Sasana, Police United and Muangthong United are away at Samut Songkhram, Siam Navy and Osotspa-Saraburi respectively.