Singha League unveils ambitious new format ahead of kick-off
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The fourth year of the Singha Football League promises big thrills plus a major overhaul when it kicks off this month with more than 6,000 teams nationwide.
Organisers have revamped the format by changing it from five-a-side to seven-a-side and replacing the round-robin stages with a straight knockout contest.
The first qualifying round kicks off on 300 pitches across the country later this month, followed by a regional stage in August to find 32 teams for the national finals on September 29 in the capital. Total prize money of Bt1 million is up for grabs, with the winners taking home a cheque for Bt100,000.
Sant Bhirombhakdi, director for Singha Corp’s non-alcohol marketing department, reckons the event will be a bigger success now that the format is “sudden-death” with no second chances for losers.
“We came up with the idea of a cup format, which will mean a shorter and more interesting competition. However, the signature of the tournament hasn’t changed as it still offers a chance for unsung footballers to test their mettle in competition.
“I also believe the tournament will help develop the game in Thailand. Who knows… one day we may produce a national player from this event,” said Sant. Wanchai Suksamai, the owner of last year’s winners Center Soccer, said his team had no worries about the change of format.
“Actually, the team prepared last year by playing seven-a-side. So, it won’t be a problem for us. We’re ready to defend our title,” said Wanchai.
