Buriram United yesterday claimed the Thailand Premier League title for the third time — and the second time in a row — after defeating Police United 2-1 in their last match of the season.
Buriram United, in black, beat Police United yesterday to secure the TPL title.
As a result of the loss, Police United became the fifth team to be relegated.
Buriram selected a full-strength side, led by Suchao Nutnum and Carmelo Gonzalez, and attacked from the outset.
Gonzalez gave the defending champions an early lead, beating the offside trap and shooting truly.
In the second half, Police United were reduced to 10 men when Adul Muensaman fouled Adisak Kraisorn in the penalty area and was sent off.
David Rochela converted the spot kick to put Buriram 2-0 ahead.
Police United dragged one back through their captain, Surachart Sareepim, and although they pushed bravely for an equaliser, they could not breach Buriram's defence.
Buriram United celebrate winning the TPL title yesterday.
Instead, Buriram held on for the victory and, in doing so, secured the title.
They received 10 million baht as reward for winning the championship and chairman Newin Chidchob paid tribute to the players as the celebrations began but was already looking ahead to next season.
"This season was the most difficult season for the Buriram team," he said. "But we know we must now improve to keep the TPL trophy at our home ground.
"We were in 14th place at the beginning of the season but came back to win the title. We are very happy to keep the trophy at the I-Mobile stadium for another year.
"Our next goal is to advance from the group stage of the Asian Champions League next season."
Buriram United chairman Newin Chidchob.
Elsewhere, Chonburi were forced to settle for second place, drawing 1-1 against TOT SC.
Thiago Cunha put Chonburi ahead in the 21st minute but TOT SC equalised when Chonburi defender Suttinun Phukhom scored an own-goal. As a result, TOT SC avoided relegation.
Chonburi will play the FA Cup final on Sunday against Bangkok Glass.
Other results were: Singhtarua 3 Si Sa Ket 1; Samut Songkhram 0 Ratchaburi 4; Muang Thong United 2 Bangkok United 3; PTT Rayong 2 Bangkok Glass 1; Suphanburi 1 Songkhla 0; Army 2 Osotspa 0; Chiang Rai 2 BEC Tero 1 and Air Force 0 Chainat 0.