Satun banned for three years

Satun supporters, incensed by the refereeing decisions after two of the home team’ players received marching orders, invaded the pitch after the final whistle and attacked the referee and his two assistants.

During the melee, one of the two assistant referees, surrounded by the angry crowd, spoke through the megaphone that he was hired to officiate the game in favour of the visiting Khon Kaen side. He, however, retracted his words at a news conference in Bangkok, claiming he did to defuse the tense situation.  

The Football Association of Thailand yesterday heavily sanctioned Satun, suspending them from taking part in any Thai FAsanctioned competition for three years starting next year besides a fine of Bt315,000. The club has until Saturday to appeal the decision. 

Meanwhile, Khon Kaen United president Watthana Changlao was far from happy after his club was being viewed as “cheaters”. 

The Satun match further lent weight to the view of many fans that Khon Kaen were often the beneficiaries of refereeing decisions. That prompted Watthana to launch a staunch defence of his club.  

“I want to make it clear that we’re definitely not cheaters as we are being accused. I’ve grown tired of hearing people saying that we cheated or we received favourable decisions from the referee. 

“I want all the parties to sit down and talk. I’m ready to prove that we have not gained any benefit from the refereeing decision. Whether they want us to swear or whatever, we’re ready to do that.

“We play the game fairly and we’ve built our team based on those spirit. I don’t want people to see us in a negative light. We’re okay if a draw [for a referee] would be made before each game. I would like to reiterate that Khon Kaen United have nothing to do with officiating of the match referee,” said Watthana.