Depleted Rabbits promise all-out effort

Depleted Rabbits promise all-out effort

Eager Chiang Rai United 'well prepared' for League Cup title clash at Thammasat tonight

Bangkok Glass coach Anurak Srikerd speaks at a pre-match press conference as Tanaboon Kesarat looks on. photo: credit
Bangkok Glass coach Anurak Srikerd speaks at a pre-match press conference as Tanaboon Kesarat looks on. photo: credit

Chiang Rai United begin their bid for double glory tonight when they square off against a depleted Bangkok Glass side in the Toyota League Cup title showdown.

While Chiang Rai, who will meet Buriram United in the FA Cup final next week, are chasing two titles this year, Bangkok Glass are seeking a consolation prize after being relegated from Thai League 1.

The Glass Rabbits, who are determined to claw their way back to the top flight within a year, face an uphill battle in their last match of an otherwise forgettable season.

And the one-match suspension that will see key midfielder Thitiphan Puangjan miss the final, which will kick off at 7pm at Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus and which will be broadcast live by True4U and TrueSport HD2, isn't the only problem Bangkok Glass coach Anurak Srikerd has on his hands.

The Rabbits could go into the title showdown with a large of number of bench warmers in their starting line-up.

"Our team have several injured and suspended players for this important game," said Anurak.

He added: "Key players like Anon Amornlertsak, Chatree Chimtalay and Piyachana Darit are all injured but we will run checks on their fitness before the game to see if anyone of them can take the field.

"Thitiphan Puangjan and Chamlermsak Akkee are suspended so we would have to devise a game plan around their replacements.

"I have been telling the players all the while that this is the only trophy left for the team and we must try to win the title to regain the faith of our fans. We still have a strong band of supporters. I hope they will come and pack the stadium for the final."

Bangkok Glass and Thailand midfielder Tanaboon Kesarat however struck a different note yesterday.

He said: "We are happy to have reached the final. We have lots of confidence and are ready to play for the team.

"This trophy is the last chance for our team. We will try to bring out our best and hope to become the winners of this tournament."

Chiang Rai United, playing in their second straight League Cup final, are eager to make amends for the loss they suffered at the hands of SCG Muang Thong United in last year's battle.

Chittawan Chinanuwat, the director of Chiang Rai United, said: "Since we cannot use Phitiwat Sukjitthummakul and Chaiyawat Buran as they are suspended, we might have to change our tactics but I believe we have good replacements available.

"We have made two Cup finals this season, but we hope to win this trophy because we lost to Muang Thong last year.

"It should be a quality match and I am hoping that our fans will come to the stadium and supports us."

Chiang Rai's injured right wing back Thawatchai Kummungkhun said: "This would have been my first final with the team and it is a pity that I would have to sit out.

"However, my teammates are looking forward to the game. We have prepared very well and hope to take the trophy back to Chiang Rai."

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