Chiang Rai United failed in their bid to leapfrog Ratchaburi into fourth place in the Thai League 1 table last night when a 1-1 away draw against the same opponents put paid to their plans.
The Beetles were awarded a penalty after a VAR review confirmed that Ratchaburi's Pathomchai Suesakul had handled a Olavio Lima header inside the box. Victor Cardozo converted the spot kick with ease in the 41st minute.
The home team's efforts finally paid off five minutes from time when Kasidech Wettayawong grabbed the equaliser to deny Chiang Rai.
Earlier on Friday night, 10-man Nakhon Ratchasima did well to escape with a 1-1 home draw against Sukhothai.
The Swat Cats were left with 10 men on the pitch when Siroch Chatthong was sent off for a high tackle on Sukhothai's Sarawut Kanyanabundit after 20 minutes.
Sukhothai were quick to take advantage as Sarawut Torarit guided a pass from Pisarn Dokmaikaew into the net to put the visitors ahead in the 28th minute.
However, the hosts took only eight minutes to level the score with Charlie Clough guiding a header to Spanish striker Tyronne Gustavo to glance the ball into the net with ease.
Nakhon Ratchasima defenders then did an excellent job in warding off a host of attacks from Sukhothai.
Nakhon Ratchasima coach Kewin Blackwell praised his men after the match, saying: "They did their best today. I am pleased with their performance although we ended the game with a point."
Sukhothai coach Dennis Amato said: "It is really a pity that we had one player advantage but still could not get the winner."