Leaders Buriram United were not exactly at their best at Sam Aoh Stadium last night but the Thunder Castle still managed to edge 10-man PT Prachuap and pick up three more points in Thai League 1.
Prachuap could have surged ahead in the 22nd minute but Peerawat Akkarathum sent a 30-yard shot flying over the bar.
Buriram netted the only goal of the match in the 59th minute when they were awarded a penalty after Suphanat Mueanta was fouled by Prachuap player Nattapon Malapun.
Lonsana Doumbouya converted the spot kick to seal three points for the defending champions.
Nattapon was also handed his second yellow card warning of the match for the offence and the home team were reduced to 10 men on the field.
In a northeastern derby, Khon Kaen United rallied past visiting Nakhon Ratchasima 3-2 with a couple of late goals last night.
Earlier on Saturday night, Muang Thong United coach Mario Gjurovski praised his players's efforts in claiming a 1-0 home victory over BG Pathum United.
The Kirins were rewarded for their efforts after 84 minutes when Jaroensak Wonggorn struck against his former club to secure a win for Muang Thong.
Gjurovski said after the match: "We controlled most of the match but it was a close game. We were not given enough space to make our moves but the players kept their patience and we were able to win the match."
Also on Saturday night, hosts Lamphun Warriors drew Police Tero 2-2 and Lampang handed a shock 1-0 defeat to Ratchaburi with Pakorn Seekaewnit delivering the winner early in the second half.