Top contenders for this year's Thai League 1 trophy face tricky assignments this weekend, the outcome of which could have a bearing on the title race with two of them going head-to-head.
Defending champions SCG Muang Thong United not only take on a side which is strong at home but who also have their former director Robert Procuerer in the same position when they travel to Ratchaburi today.
Big-spending Chiang Rai, who are two points short of the Kirins' 24, also have a tough game tomorrow evening when they host four-time champions Buriram United.
Muang Thong performed very well in the previous match on Wednesday when they defeated Si Sa Ket 3-0 with goals from Mongkol Totsakrai, Adisak Kraisorn and Tristan Do.
Ratchaburi, meanwhile, got one point from Nakhon Ratchasima.
Procuerer told a news conference yesterday: "We will play at our home ground after many away matches so it would be good for our team.
"We always have sort of an advantage playing at home because we have a big support [from fans]. It will also be good for our team to get a point at our home ground.
"I am sure it will be an exciting game for both teams. Muang Thong are a good and strong team but I know their weak and strong points. I am confident that the result will come out in our favour."
Muang Thong United coach Totchtawan Sripan: "We have many injured players including striker Xisco Jeminez and we would have to check on his fitness again before the match.
"Adisak Kraisorn is also injured and will be away for six weeks, meaning that we are only left with one striker, Teerasil Dangda.
"However, we want to win the title so we will have to try and claim three points from this game. In fact it doesn't matter who and when we play because we have to go three points in every match."
"Ratchaburi play very well in their home. Last season, we lost to them but this year, so we are aiming for a revenge."
Meanwhile, Chiang Rai will be banking on their Brazilian coach Alexandre Gama's knowledge of Buriram. Gama parted ways with the Thunder Castle last season.
Gama said: "It will be a tough game but we are hoping for a victory. After winning the previous match at Ubon [UMT United], the players' confidence is quite high. However, we will be without Piyaphol Panichakul who is suspended after picking up a red card in the last match."
Buriram United manager Tatthep Pitakpoolsin said: "We will be trying to win this match but Chiang Rai United are a strong team. It may not be easy for us to beat them in their home ground."
