Chonburi see off Saraburi in opener

Chonburi see off Saraburi in opener

Defending champions Buriram United begin defence of title and will unveil several new recruits when they host Port MTI

Chonburi kicked off the 2015 Thai Premier League season with a 3-1 win at promoted Saraburi last night.

Buriram United will begin the defence of their TPL title today.

There was only one game yesterday because Chonburi will have to play in the AFC Champions League on Tuesday.

Brazilian Thiago Cunha gave Chonburi, last year’s runners-up, the lead after just three minutes and Thinakorn Asurin made it 1-1 just before half-time.

Army United president Udomdej Sitabutr.

In their first ever season in the top flight, Saraburi had several chances early in the second half.

But it was Thailand striker Kirati Kaewsombut, who joins Chonburi from relegated PTT Rayong, who regained the lead for the Sharks midway through the second half.

Juliano Mineiro, another Brazilian, put the match beyond any doubt late on.

Buriram United will begin the defence of their title today when they host new-look Port MTI.

The champions released three key players after winning the TPL crown last year — forwards Adisak Kraisorn, Carmelo Gonzalez and Javier Patino.

The Thunder Castle have brought in several new players including Thailand internationals Prakit Deeprom and Naruebodin Weerawatnodom and New Zealand international Kayne Vincent.

It was confirmed this week that Muang Thai Insurance boss Nuanphan Lamsam has become CEO of Port in a joint venture deal.

Nuanphan, who is also manager of the women’s national side, aims for Port MTI to finish in the top five although many pundits believe it is a target too far.

Under their new president, army chief Gen Udomdej Sitabutr, Army United will host newcomers Navy in a military derby.

Tomorrow, SCG Muang Thong United will begin their bid to regain the title at newly-promoted Nakhon Ratchasima.

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