Customs United FC
Ground: Lad Krabang 54 Stadium
Capacity: 2,000
Club Founded: 1998
League: Thai League 3 East (current level)
Based in Bangkok and backed by Thailand's Customs Department, Customs United FC has spent much of its history competing in the country's lower divisions. This post explores the club's story, its home ground, and my many visits to see them in action.
Early Club History
Thailand's Customs Department had a football team in the 1950's before the game in the Land of Smiles became professional, leading to the founding of many modern-day clubs. Playing as Customs Department FC, the side won promotion to the Thai Premier League in 2007 as second-tier champions.
Down to the League Basement
They were relegated after just one season, changing their name to Suvarnabhumi Customs FC a couple of years later, and moving to their new home at Lad Krabang after previously playing at Kaseem Bundit University. A further change of title followed in 2011, to Samut Prakan Customs United FC, dropping the name of the district twelve months later.
Down to the League Basement
It coincided with relegation to the third-tier Regional League under coach Kritsada Piandit, who was replaced by Jakree Nongnoi as the club gradually improved its on-pitch performances. United won the Thai Division 2 Bangkok Region title in 2015, before the season ended disappointingly in the playoffs.
Rajpracha ended hopes of promotion in the playoffs a year later after a penalty shootout. An extra tier was added to the Thai League in 2017. Customs added MOF to their title and were placed in the Thai League 3 Lower Region, where Efe Odobe ended as the leading scorer.
UroΕ‘ Stojanov's goals helped the team towards the divisional title a year later, resulting in promotion to the second tier under head coach Chayaphol Kotchasarn. Australian Kayne Vincent topped the scoring charts in the 2019 campaign.
The MOF suffix was dropped from the club title for the 2020-21 season, one in which Brazilian forward Danilo scored the goals. United changed its head coach, with Worrawoot Srimaka replaced by Santi Songte. Damian BellΓ³n and then Warit Boonsripitayaon were the next incumbents of the job.
Port FC Controversy
Return to the Second-Tier
The MOF suffix was dropped from the club title for the 2020-21 season, one in which Brazilian forward Danilo scored the goals. United changed its head coach, with Worrawoot Srimaka replaced by Santi Songte. Damian BellΓ³n and then Warit Boonsripitayaon were the next incumbents of the job.
Port FC Controversy
Retitled as Customs Ladkrabang United, the team rallied to avoid relegation in 2021-22. A link-up with Port FC was formulated in readiness for the following season, with players moving across town as well as the former coach at the PAT Stadium, Arnon Bundasa.
It proved to be a successful, if controversial, season. Customs reached the promotion play-off final after dispatching Chiang Mai United. However, pre-match, it was announced that they had not bothered to apply for the Thai League 1 license, meaning opponents Uthai Thani would go up, whatever the result, to the ire of many followers of the game.
Relegation Woes
It proved to be a successful, if controversial, season. Customs reached the promotion play-off final after dispatching Chiang Mai United. However, pre-match, it was announced that they had not bothered to apply for the Thai League 1 license, meaning opponents Uthai Thani would go up, whatever the result, to the ire of many followers of the game.
Relegation Woes
Port withdrew its support for Customs, leaving them independent once again. They were relegated after head coach Jaropung Sangpong was replaced by Prasonchoke Chokemor and then by Arnon Bandasak. New investment arrived via Toko, a Thai engineering company.
Down in Thai League 3 East, Keita Goto and Narongsak Sisang had spells in charge of the team. Their successor was Daniel Blanco, who did a fine job before being lured by the FC Tiamo job in Japan in November 2025. The new Customs coach was Attakorn Masawang, who was quickly replaced by Tatsuya Tanaka.
My visits
Suvarnabhumi Customs 0 Thai Honda 1
Down in Thai League 3 East, Keita Goto and Narongsak Sisang had spells in charge of the team. Their successor was Daniel Blanco, who did a fine job before being lured by the FC Tiamo job in Japan in November 2025. The new Customs coach was Attakorn Masawang, who was quickly replaced by Tatsuya Tanaka.
My visits
Suvarnabhumi Customs 0 Thai Honda 1
Thailand League Division One - Sunday 25th April 2010
π¨π¨π§π§ c600 π️ 50 THB (£1.20)
My stay in Thailand was prolonged owing to the issues caused by the erupting Icelandic volcano, which cancelled my flight back to the UK. I'd already been in the Land of Smiles for around a month to attend cricket tournaments. I decided to make the most of my time, despite the sensitive political situation around Bangkok, which added to the chaos.
My First Thai Football Weekend
The previous day, I went to my first Thai football match. It was the Premier League game between Army and Bangkok United, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. True to my nature, I wanted to explore more. Being the curious type, I wanted to see what football was like in the second tier of the national league system.
We went through the thriving suburb of Lat Kra Bang and found the correct soi (road) off the main drag. I didn’t spot much of note until a newish ground appeared on the left next to a wat (temple). The car park was pretty full, and the crowd looked large. I went to the ticket hut and received smiles all round upon admission.
Thai Stadium Catering
Excellent First Impressions
My good pal and temporary landlord, once again, Steve couldn’t be tempted to go with me. At least I had the support of his girlfriend Ea, who wrote down the stadium address in Thai for my taxi driver. After a lovely traditional lunch at Fashion Island Shopping Mall, I eventually found a driver who knew the address and was keen to take me.
We went through the thriving suburb of Lat Kra Bang and found the correct soi (road) off the main drag. I didn’t spot much of note until a newish ground appeared on the left next to a wat (temple). The car park was pretty full, and the crowd looked large. I went to the ticket hut and received smiles all round upon admission.
Thai Stadium Catering
References were made to the new Army FC shirt I was wearing, which I had bought the previous day. I quickly worked out that there were no refreshments available inside the ground, but stalls were set up in the car park. I retreated to buy some water.
As with most Thai stadiums, my wrist had been stamped, allowing access in and out at will. The ground had two smallish stands on either side of the pitch with nothing behind the goals, save for dressing rooms at one end and huge mesh fences to keep the ball next to the pitch.
All the roofs and fencing had a large series of national flags on top, which I found a lovely touch. The nearside stands were packed, one of which was with schoolkids. Fans in both stands made a real racket. I wandered round to the far side, which had a river running behind it, like a poor man's Fulham.
The weather was sweltering as the game kicked off at 4pm, as the ground had no floodlights. Many locals hid in the shade. I managed to get a seat on the basic wooden slats at the back, slightly out of the sun, hoping for a breeze to keep me cool.
Foreign Influence
As with most Thai stadiums, my wrist had been stamped, allowing access in and out at will. The ground had two smallish stands on either side of the pitch with nothing behind the goals, save for dressing rooms at one end and huge mesh fences to keep the ball next to the pitch.
Reminders of Craven Cottage
The weather was sweltering as the game kicked off at 4pm, as the ground had no floodlights. Many locals hid in the shade. I managed to get a seat on the basic wooden slats at the back, slightly out of the sun, hoping for a breeze to keep me cool.
Foreign Influence
Players on both sides put in a great effort. It must have been extremely draining. Customs fielded three exports. Mika Chunuonsee, with Thai parents but born in Bridgend, Wales, was a former Cardiff City junior.
I had fully enjoyed the experience. It was now time to discover the third tier and regional football! I headed to Suvarnabhumi to meet my Aussie pal Reds for a quick goodbye before meeting Lemon and his Dutch pals downtown.
Customs Ladkrabang United 2 Ranong United 0
At full time, I headed across the road to grab a taxi back to Min Buri to my favourite Brothers and Sisters bar, which didn’t seem to have official opening and closing times. Yes, I liked Teaw’s attitude there! So much I'd end up marrying her.
Customs Ladkrabang United 1 Phrae United 3
Customs started the game third from bottom against the visitors from Sattahip, who sat well adrift and were certainties to go down. Surely this had a home win written all over it. We were so sure that we included the game in our triple bet.
Of course, football isn’t always certain, and with the Navy having nothing to lose, they went for it, cheered on by some enthusiastic support. I thought the bonny young lady, along with me, was going to explode as she shouted for her team and gave it to the officials.
Her side took the lead four minutes before the break when Gafar Durosimni saw his shot get a slight deflection on the way in. The hosts were not being helped by a sulky showing from Douglas, who once again looked lazy, moody, and petulant. He really was dross as an overseas signing.
The equaliser came just after the hour mark when a fine move saw a bullet header from Elias De Oliveira go in at the back post. Having levelled things up, home player Kitting Aupachakham made a stupid challenge to receive his marching orders for a second yellow.
Douglas was pushing all the right buttons in cranking up my pal and me with his attitude. It was made worse as, occasionally, he’d play a fine pass or win a towering header. He could do it when he could be bothered, and here was his team right in the mire and needing him most.
The coach withdrew him with four minutes remaining. The big man had a hissy fit as he wanted to take a direct free kick first. His teammates pushed him away and pointed to the touchline.
His replacement, Nuttawut Chanach, came on and took the kick, which was a superb effort that went in off the underside of the bar. Douglas was away to join in the celebrations at lightning pace. If only he’d shown that much energy on the pitch.
Customs just about hung on, defending a late indirect free kick in their own box when the ref booked the keeper for time-wasting. We headed off, having really enjoyed the last half hour. A craft bar called Rest Up on Lat Krabang Road was our destination for some beer on draught.
We tried a 5.5% hoppy beer called Annie Haze from Young Master, brewed in Hong Kong. This was followed up by sharing bottles and cans of 7% Summer Head Head, which we believe was locally brewed, 6% Nocha Merlin chocolate stout from Ballas Point in San Diego. Truly an international occasion.
Finally, we opted for a sour 5% honey beer called Nonthaburi Mead, brewed in the northern outskirts, which we didn’t massively enjoy. Rest Up was a fine bar with ambient music, which also showed EPL football on TV. However, it wasn't cheap, being comparable to London prices, but a treat now and again is welcome. We vowed to be back.
Customs Ladkrabang United 1 Ayutthaya United 0
This game appeared on my Facebook timeline. Just the job with a 4pm kick-off, with the usual means of transport running perfectly. I was slightly concerned on arrival that the normal spectator gate was locked. I went in where the officials entered.
The game was a bit of a letdown and nothing more than a training exercise, played over three half-hour periods. The pitch had no markings, with cones doing the job, while portable goals made it shorter.
Both teams used at least twenty-two players, so everyone got a run. It was of a decent pace, and plenty of skill was in evidence. Customs gave a couple of their overseas signings the final period to impress.
One of them, Alessandro Di Stefano, added to an earlier United goal from Phanomphon Phuangmalai. A Japanese import grabbed City’s consolation. By the time I eventually got home, I was thoroughly drenched, having been caught up in a storm and flash flood of biblical proportions in Minburi.
Customs United 3 Udonthani 1
On a lovely day, I headed to Lat Krabang near Suvarnabhumi Airport, where my songthaew was stuck in traffic, giving me a glimpse of a sign saying cafΓ©, bar, open. It was called Kota. As I was ahead of schedule, it would have been ridiculous to overlook such an invite.
Muangthong took the lead in the opening minute when a clumsy foul on the edge of the box saw their number 24 rifling the resulting free-kick into the top corner of the net. After this, Customs were on top and created a few half-chances.
A big African chap saw his effort well saved by the MTU keeper, before a fellow of similar origins but of slender build had one cleared off the line. A player who could have been of Brazilian heritage missed a sitter at the back post, to the chagrin of the Customs animated coach.
No team sheets were available, so identifying either side was difficult, even more so for Customs, whose players had no numbers on their shirts. The visitors fielded a young side, presumably including fringe, first-team and some academy players.
Customs were going through a turbulent spell. After being backed by Port FC financially and with loan signings, they were going it alone and no doubt trawling through many trialists, hence the lack of identity. Who knew where that would leave them this season, with some observers reckoning on a season of struggle.
It was hard to say, but judging on this performance, I thought that they had enough good players, if they retained the right ones, to comfortably stay up. It would be a matter of getting them to gel.
The second half continued similarly, with the home side on the ascendancy, and the away goalie making a fine near-post stop. Then his side broke down the right with some fine interplay. The number 5 dragged a wonderful low ball back well outside the box, where the onrushing number 10 slammed home hard and low on the hour mark.
Six minutes late, the Customs were back in it, after a corner wasn’t cleared. The ball bobbled about before it was hooked in off the underside of the bar. Seven minutes from the end came the equaliser, as a low free-kick bounced in front of the keeper, who fumbled and was put away by a sub who was lively throughout, showing potential.
A nice, friendly atmosphere to match the game, with many in attendance being MTU fans, not massively impressed with the goalkeeping error. Lat Krabang was extremely vibrant after the game, with bars, music, and lots of stalls and street food. Once my domain, but my good lady had prepared dinner for me back home.
Customs United 1 Chiangmai United 3
The first goal went in for the boys in blue, Customs colours, after eighteen minutes. Then the scoreboard revealed that CMU were in blue, their regular change kit, and CU were in red, their second strip. A cock up by the away side’s kit man, no doubt.
Anyway, that goal scored by Pattara Soimalai had been coming for a while. Customs were alright, but the away team seemed physically stronger in all departments. The score was doubled when the marvellously named Brazilian, Mosquito, made it 2-0 shortly before halftime.
The game was put to bed two minutes after the restart when Ho Ju volleyed through a crowd past the motionless keeper Theerawat Pinpradub. Both he and opposing goalie Pirot Eammak would have been better off concentrating on their jobs than getting involved in any minor incident, with neither shy to roll around in fake pain.
Two Brazilians, Paulo Roberto and Wallace Da Silva, made up the trio. Despite the overseas influence, Honda went ahead before half-time. Supporters continued to make a lot of noise, like the Army game the day before, using a variety of instruments. They weren’t the most melodic I’d ever heard, but they were still preferable to the England band.
At halftime, the kids went, and that stand was filled with away fans. Customs huffed and puffed in the second period but couldn’t break through. I went five minutes from the end as I had a rendezvous with a cricketing pal at the airport, whose departure terminal was visible from the ground.
It Aint Half Hot Mum
I wish my taxi driver had taken a more direct route! The game was decided by a solitary goal for Honda in what I later discovered to be a local derby. Honda’s KMITL Stadium was also visible from the airport.
Customs Ladkrabang United 2 Ranong United 0
Thai League 2 - Saturday 15th January 2022
π¨π¨π§π§ 220 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
A Welcome Return
Twelve years after my first visit, I was now permanently based in Minburi, the next district north of Lad Krabang. It was a few weeks before the fixtures aligned for my return. Now armed with local knowledge, attending a match would be relatively easy.
Local Transport
Twelve years after my first visit, I was now permanently based in Minburi, the next district north of Lad Krabang. It was a few weeks before the fixtures aligned for my return. Now armed with local knowledge, attending a match would be relatively easy.
Local Transport
I’d quickly sussed that a songthaew went all the way from Min Buri Market to Lad Krabang Road, so this was a no-brainer. I got out earlier than needed to have a look at the night market before heading to Soi 54.
From there, it was another twenty-five-minute walk to Customs Stadium for this 7pm kickoff. Most of the route was taken along a road without footpaths, proving quite hazardous, which was noted for future reference. My socks and trainers gathered many prickly plants along the way.
Stadium Improvements
From there, it was another twenty-five-minute walk to Customs Stadium for this 7pm kickoff. Most of the route was taken along a road without footpaths, proving quite hazardous, which was noted for future reference. My socks and trainers gathered many prickly plants along the way.
Stadium Improvements
The stewards assumed I was an away fan, presumably as a stranger. This was no hassle, as I’ll go anywhere as long as I see a game. Beer was allowed inside, too, unlike in the top division. It was bought from one of a couple of portable stalls outside that also dealt in cheap Thai nibbles and snacks.
I immediately noticed that the ground was much improved with stands going the full length of both sides of the pitch. The most welcome addition were the floodlights, which were of good quality.
Plane Spotting
Plane Spotting
There was also the addition of an electric scoreboard. The far side where I was sitting was now open to the elements, which caused a few occasional nervous glances to the skies, with planes landing with not too much frequency across the way, an added distraction.
The match ended in a deserved home win, despite Great Andaman Ranong United, listing their full website title, giving it a good go, backed by a smattering of supporters who’d made the long journey to the capital.
Brazilian Goals
The match ended in a deserved home win, despite Great Andaman Ranong United, listing their full website title, giving it a good go, backed by a smattering of supporters who’d made the long journey to the capital.
Brazilian Goals
The hosts' goals both came from Brazilians, with the sometimes erratic and ever-moody frontman Douglas sending his team back to the dressing rooms 1-0 ahead with a goal in the second minute of first-half additional time.
This was added to by the consistent and rather good thirty-year-old Elias, who netted ten minutes after the restart to give the team led by head coach Warit Boonsripitayaon all three points.
This was added to by the consistent and rather good thirty-year-old Elias, who netted ten minutes after the restart to give the team led by head coach Warit Boonsripitayaon all three points.
At full time, I headed across the road to grab a taxi back to Min Buri to my favourite Brothers and Sisters bar, which didn’t seem to have official opening and closing times. Yes, I liked Teaw’s attitude there! So much I'd end up marrying her.
Customs Ladkrabang United 1 Phrae United 3
Thai League 2 - Friday 11th February 2022
π¨π¨π§π§ 235 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
I’d told my old mate and Minburi neighbour Steve all about my previous visit. He was free and decided to give it a go as we caught an additional songthaew ride down Soi 54 to avoid any danger before taking up a seat undercover with the home fans.
The visitors came deservedly from behind to take the points to augment their push towards the playoffs, while Customs were left to decry a big chance to pick up a vital point to help their fight against relegation.
A finely crafted goal from Ahamarasul gave Customs the lead midway through the first half. A brace from halftime sub Wellington Smith after the break, after fifty-seven and sixty-six minutes, turned the tide.
However, Customs had a glorious opportunity to equalise when they were awarded a penalty eleven minutes from time. The lacklustre Douglas, whose second name should be Bader, on the two matches I'd seen him, stepped up and saw his kick saved by Carlos Santos.
The forward's performance really did challenge Bonilla of Port as the most inept I'd seen from the foreign signing since moving to Thailand. Sure enough, Phrae wrapped it up with the last kick of stoppage time through another sub and overseas player Rodrigo Maranhao.
We had a decent enough night out, seeing a decent game after some food on the main road. Unfortunately, the bars opened at the same time as the 6pm kick-off, so we had a dry night. We put that right next time.
Customs Ladkrabang United 2 Navy FC 1
The visitors came deservedly from behind to take the points to augment their push towards the playoffs, while Customs were left to decry a big chance to pick up a vital point to help their fight against relegation.
A finely crafted goal from Ahamarasul gave Customs the lead midway through the first half. A brace from halftime sub Wellington Smith after the break, after fifty-seven and sixty-six minutes, turned the tide.
However, Customs had a glorious opportunity to equalise when they were awarded a penalty eleven minutes from time. The lacklustre Douglas, whose second name should be Bader, on the two matches I'd seen him, stepped up and saw his kick saved by Carlos Santos.
The forward's performance really did challenge Bonilla of Port as the most inept I'd seen from the foreign signing since moving to Thailand. Sure enough, Phrae wrapped it up with the last kick of stoppage time through another sub and overseas player Rodrigo Maranhao.
We had a decent enough night out, seeing a decent game after some food on the main road. Unfortunately, the bars opened at the same time as the 6pm kick-off, so we had a dry night. We put that right next time.
Customs Ladkrabang United 2 Navy FC 1
Thai League 2 - Sunday 13th March 2022
π¨π¨π§π§ 190 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
Steve joined me again to travel by songthaews, split at the top of Soi 54 to the ground by an excellent khao man gai, which is chicken and rice with broth, which cost just over a quid. With free water thrown in for good measure
Steve joined me again to travel by songthaews, split at the top of Soi 54 to the ground by an excellent khao man gai, which is chicken and rice with broth, which cost just over a quid. With free water thrown in for good measure
Customs started the game third from bottom against the visitors from Sattahip, who sat well adrift and were certainties to go down. Surely this had a home win written all over it. We were so sure that we included the game in our triple bet.
Of course, football isn’t always certain, and with the Navy having nothing to lose, they went for it, cheered on by some enthusiastic support. I thought the bonny young lady, along with me, was going to explode as she shouted for her team and gave it to the officials.
Her side took the lead four minutes before the break when Gafar Durosimni saw his shot get a slight deflection on the way in. The hosts were not being helped by a sulky showing from Douglas, who once again looked lazy, moody, and petulant. He really was dross as an overseas signing.
The equaliser came just after the hour mark when a fine move saw a bullet header from Elias De Oliveira go in at the back post. Having levelled things up, home player Kitting Aupachakham made a stupid challenge to receive his marching orders for a second yellow.
Douglas was pushing all the right buttons in cranking up my pal and me with his attitude. It was made worse as, occasionally, he’d play a fine pass or win a towering header. He could do it when he could be bothered, and here was his team right in the mire and needing him most.
The coach withdrew him with four minutes remaining. The big man had a hissy fit as he wanted to take a direct free kick first. His teammates pushed him away and pointed to the touchline.
His replacement, Nuttawut Chanach, came on and took the kick, which was a superb effort that went in off the underside of the bar. Douglas was away to join in the celebrations at lightning pace. If only he’d shown that much energy on the pitch.
Customs just about hung on, defending a late indirect free kick in their own box when the ref booked the keeper for time-wasting. We headed off, having really enjoyed the last half hour. A craft bar called Rest Up on Lat Krabang Road was our destination for some beer on draught.
We tried a 5.5% hoppy beer called Annie Haze from Young Master, brewed in Hong Kong. This was followed up by sharing bottles and cans of 7% Summer Head Head, which we believe was locally brewed, 6% Nocha Merlin chocolate stout from Ballas Point in San Diego. Truly an international occasion.
Finally, we opted for a sour 5% honey beer called Nonthaburi Mead, brewed in the northern outskirts, which we didn’t massively enjoy. Rest Up was a fine bar with ambient music, which also showed EPL football on TV. However, it wasn't cheap, being comparable to London prices, but a treat now and again is welcome. We vowed to be back.
Customs Ladkrabang United 1 Ayutthaya United 0
Thai League 2 - Saturday 26th March 2022
π¨π¨π§π§ 180 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
United were perilously close to relegation when I attended this game, somewhat against my original plans. A few hours earlier, I’d headed west on the train to Chachoengsao, with a proper day out being my intended plan.
I’d head to their match against Muang Loei United in the third-level promotion playoffs, then enjoy a couple of beers on the way back to the station. The warning alarms sounded when I arrived at Fighting Fish Stadium twenty minutes before the advertised kickoff, with nobody else around.
The game had been moved to Chang Park in Chonburi, which was out of reach without a car. Instead, I wandered back, observing a couple of decent-looking bars for future visits as well as the club offices and shop on Em Onithit 1.
Of course, announcing my cock up on social media gave plenty of pals a giggle, of which I’ve no issues whatsoever. I took an earlier train, alighting at Hua Takhe station to grab a songthaew on a sweltering afternoon.
I was most grateful for a bottle of water, followed by a beer with lots of ice when I arrived at the stadium before taking my usual vantage point in the covered section of the home stand. I was to see a game with application, making up for the paucity of quality.
Much to my surprise, Douglas put in a proper shift. Maybe it was near contract time, or he was being given a bonus if Customs stayed up. The ever-reliable Elias netted the only goal seven minutes after the break.
By hook and crook, the hosts hung on for a valuable three points. Generally, I didn’t approve of some of the tactics they employed, but this was vital stuff, and I’d taken to them strangely. Their retaining second-tier football offered me a decent nearby option.
Customs Ladkrabang United 2 Samut Prakan City 1
United were perilously close to relegation when I attended this game, somewhat against my original plans. A few hours earlier, I’d headed west on the train to Chachoengsao, with a proper day out being my intended plan.
I’d head to their match against Muang Loei United in the third-level promotion playoffs, then enjoy a couple of beers on the way back to the station. The warning alarms sounded when I arrived at Fighting Fish Stadium twenty minutes before the advertised kickoff, with nobody else around.
The game had been moved to Chang Park in Chonburi, which was out of reach without a car. Instead, I wandered back, observing a couple of decent-looking bars for future visits as well as the club offices and shop on Em Onithit 1.
Of course, announcing my cock up on social media gave plenty of pals a giggle, of which I’ve no issues whatsoever. I took an earlier train, alighting at Hua Takhe station to grab a songthaew on a sweltering afternoon.
I was most grateful for a bottle of water, followed by a beer with lots of ice when I arrived at the stadium before taking my usual vantage point in the covered section of the home stand. I was to see a game with application, making up for the paucity of quality.
Much to my surprise, Douglas put in a proper shift. Maybe it was near contract time, or he was being given a bonus if Customs stayed up. The ever-reliable Elias netted the only goal seven minutes after the break.
By hook and crook, the hosts hung on for a valuable three points. Generally, I didn’t approve of some of the tactics they employed, but this was vital stuff, and I’d taken to them strangely. Their retaining second-tier football offered me a decent nearby option.
Customs Ladkrabang United 2 Samut Prakan City 1
Friendly - Wednesday 20th July 2022
π¨π¨π§π§ c10 π️ Free
This game appeared on my Facebook timeline. Just the job with a 4pm kick-off, with the usual means of transport running perfectly. I was slightly concerned on arrival that the normal spectator gate was locked. I went in where the officials entered.
The game was a bit of a letdown and nothing more than a training exercise, played over three half-hour periods. The pitch had no markings, with cones doing the job, while portable goals made it shorter.
Both teams used at least twenty-two players, so everyone got a run. It was of a decent pace, and plenty of skill was in evidence. Customs gave a couple of their overseas signings the final period to impress.
One of them, Alessandro Di Stefano, added to an earlier United goal from Phanomphon Phuangmalai. A Japanese import grabbed City’s consolation. By the time I eventually got home, I was thoroughly drenched, having been caught up in a storm and flash flood of biblical proportions in Minburi.
Customs United 3 Udonthani 1
Thai League 2 - Saturday 3rd September 2022) Thai League 2 (att: 520)
π¨π¨π§π§ 520 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
It was time to see how United performed in competitive action after an unbeaten start in their first three games. Udon, on the other hand, was without a win. My friend Gary was down with his family, so I headed to his hotel on Ramkhamhaeng Road to meet up.
Saturday teatime traffic was congested on Rom Klao and Lat Krabang Road. We eventually reached the stadium fifteen minutes before kickoff. The changes off the pitch at Customs Stadium were also in evidence.
There were more vendors, with one selling trainers for one of the sponsors. The beer stand was being marshalled by two chaps who seemed inexperienced, if pleasant. With drinks in hand, we headed to the far end of the main stand seating.
A minute's silence was held before kickoff for referee Titichai Nuanchan, who had died in a road accident after officiating in the game between Nongbua Pitchaya and Ratchaburi the previous evening. The hosts took the initiative straight from the kickoff with Port FC loanie Anusak Jaiphet hitting the side netting.
He followed that up by heading just wide from a corner before the visitors also showed their attacking intent with Greg Houla leading the line well. However, Customs went ahead with sixteen minutes on the clock when Natthawat Thobansong cut inside and fired a beauty into the far top corner.
David Cuerva was having a fine game in the middle of the park for United, with big import centre-back Adnan Orahovac showing signs of dominance. Aung Kaung Mann got in for the away side but dragged his shot across the goal.
Kittiwut Bouloy looked tricky from the start, and he created havoc before putting a low shot away to make it 2-0 six minutes before the break. There was still time for Udon to half the deficit before the break, when Houla, then Sang-bum Jo, set up Weerawat Jiraphaksiri to fire home from the edge of the box.
Thobansong bent a free kick wide shortly after the restart, with the hosts extending their lead on sixty-six minutes when a ball inside saw the second of five players on loan from Port, Phodchara Chainaron, go too quick for his marker as he ran through and slotted home. The difference between him and last season's striker Douglas was glaring.
Daisuke Sakai was the next home player to cut inside for a shot on goal, but he was denied by keeper Jaturong Samakorn. Great play in the corner from sub Pheemphapob Viriyachancha led to him crossing where Sakai somehow headed wide in front of a gaping net.
Udonthani kept going until the end and did not play badly. It's just that they were up against what I thought was a very good and exciting outfit. At full time, we headed back to Minburi for an evening of jollity in my Brothers & Sisters Bar, my favourite local establishment.
Customs United 0 Bangkok United 1
It was time to see how United performed in competitive action after an unbeaten start in their first three games. Udon, on the other hand, was without a win. My friend Gary was down with his family, so I headed to his hotel on Ramkhamhaeng Road to meet up.
Saturday teatime traffic was congested on Rom Klao and Lat Krabang Road. We eventually reached the stadium fifteen minutes before kickoff. The changes off the pitch at Customs Stadium were also in evidence.
There were more vendors, with one selling trainers for one of the sponsors. The beer stand was being marshalled by two chaps who seemed inexperienced, if pleasant. With drinks in hand, we headed to the far end of the main stand seating.
A minute's silence was held before kickoff for referee Titichai Nuanchan, who had died in a road accident after officiating in the game between Nongbua Pitchaya and Ratchaburi the previous evening. The hosts took the initiative straight from the kickoff with Port FC loanie Anusak Jaiphet hitting the side netting.
He followed that up by heading just wide from a corner before the visitors also showed their attacking intent with Greg Houla leading the line well. However, Customs went ahead with sixteen minutes on the clock when Natthawat Thobansong cut inside and fired a beauty into the far top corner.
David Cuerva was having a fine game in the middle of the park for United, with big import centre-back Adnan Orahovac showing signs of dominance. Aung Kaung Mann got in for the away side but dragged his shot across the goal.
Kittiwut Bouloy looked tricky from the start, and he created havoc before putting a low shot away to make it 2-0 six minutes before the break. There was still time for Udon to half the deficit before the break, when Houla, then Sang-bum Jo, set up Weerawat Jiraphaksiri to fire home from the edge of the box.
Thobansong bent a free kick wide shortly after the restart, with the hosts extending their lead on sixty-six minutes when a ball inside saw the second of five players on loan from Port, Phodchara Chainaron, go too quick for his marker as he ran through and slotted home. The difference between him and last season's striker Douglas was glaring.
Daisuke Sakai was the next home player to cut inside for a shot on goal, but he was denied by keeper Jaturong Samakorn. Great play in the corner from sub Pheemphapob Viriyachancha led to him crossing where Sakai somehow headed wide in front of a gaping net.
Udonthani kept going until the end and did not play badly. It's just that they were up against what I thought was a very good and exciting outfit. At full time, we headed back to Minburi for an evening of jollity in my Brothers & Sisters Bar, my favourite local establishment.
Customs United 0 Bangkok United 1
Thai League Cup Round of 32 - Wednesday 16th November 2022
π¨π¨π§π§ 570 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
Back down to Ladkrabang 54 via the usual way, including a walk and some further discovery for possible future reference along the main drag. A good crowd, split about 50/50 between home and away fans, saw a spirited Customs display.
It looked like it might have been a one-sided affair when the visitors went ahead after ten minutes when the excellent Heberty smashed home a nod down from Willen Mota, leaving keeper Teerath Nakchamnarn with no chance.
The lead nearly doubled midway through the first half when a glancing header went narrowly wide. Customs defended resiliently before Heberty stung the palms of Nakchamnarn from the edge of the box, and a couple more efforts went over the bar before the first period ended.
Sub, Chayawat Srinawong saw his attempt scrambled off the line by Customs defender Panomporn Puangmalai before referee Torphong Somsing turned away appeals for a penalty at the other end that he could well have given.
The hosts continued giving their all and pushed for an equaliser, but found the Bangkok defence well marshalled. The score was about right, and I managed to grab a taxi all the way home in quick time so I could head over the road for food and drink.
Customs United 2 Muangthong United 2
Back down to Ladkrabang 54 via the usual way, including a walk and some further discovery for possible future reference along the main drag. A good crowd, split about 50/50 between home and away fans, saw a spirited Customs display.
It looked like it might have been a one-sided affair when the visitors went ahead after ten minutes when the excellent Heberty smashed home a nod down from Willen Mota, leaving keeper Teerath Nakchamnarn with no chance.
The lead nearly doubled midway through the first half when a glancing header went narrowly wide. Customs defended resiliently before Heberty stung the palms of Nakchamnarn from the edge of the box, and a couple more efforts went over the bar before the first period ended.
Sub, Chayawat Srinawong saw his attempt scrambled off the line by Customs defender Panomporn Puangmalai before referee Torphong Somsing turned away appeals for a penalty at the other end that he could well have given.
The hosts continued giving their all and pushed for an equaliser, but found the Bangkok defence well marshalled. The score was about right, and I managed to grab a taxi all the way home in quick time so I could head over the road for food and drink.
Customs United 2 Muangthong United 2
Friendly - Wednesday 26th July 2023
π¨π¨π§π§ c120 π️ Free
On a lovely day, I headed to Lat Krabang near Suvarnabhumi Airport, where my songthaew was stuck in traffic, giving me a glimpse of a sign saying cafΓ©, bar, open. It was called Kota. As I was ahead of schedule, it would have been ridiculous to overlook such an invite.
Craft beers are not cheap in Thailand, so large cans for around £4 or 189 Baht seemed reasonable, though they are half that price at some 7/11 stores. I enjoyed both the 5% Pale Ale and 4.5% Cashmere Session IPA from Thai brewer Mahanakhon. Cashew nuts, with chillies, onion, and lime, proved the perfect accompaniment and are highly recommended.
This was a midweek bonus as both teams prepared for the season openers just over a fortnight later. An enjoyable game too, pleasing on the eye, in which the hosts came back from 2-0 down against higher division opposition, at least in name.
The breeze on a beautiful early evening and a 5pm kickoff were most welcome. I enjoyed being close to the pitch down either side with decent elevated views. A shame the catering vendors didn’t appear, as they lost out.
Muangthong took the lead in the opening minute when a clumsy foul on the edge of the box saw their number 24 rifling the resulting free-kick into the top corner of the net. After this, Customs were on top and created a few half-chances.
A big African chap saw his effort well saved by the MTU keeper, before a fellow of similar origins but of slender build had one cleared off the line. A player who could have been of Brazilian heritage missed a sitter at the back post, to the chagrin of the Customs animated coach.
No team sheets were available, so identifying either side was difficult, even more so for Customs, whose players had no numbers on their shirts. The visitors fielded a young side, presumably including fringe, first-team and some academy players.
Customs were going through a turbulent spell. After being backed by Port FC financially and with loan signings, they were going it alone and no doubt trawling through many trialists, hence the lack of identity. Who knew where that would leave them this season, with some observers reckoning on a season of struggle.
It was hard to say, but judging on this performance, I thought that they had enough good players, if they retained the right ones, to comfortably stay up. It would be a matter of getting them to gel.
The second half continued similarly, with the home side on the ascendancy, and the away goalie making a fine near-post stop. Then his side broke down the right with some fine interplay. The number 5 dragged a wonderful low ball back well outside the box, where the onrushing number 10 slammed home hard and low on the hour mark.
Six minutes late, the Customs were back in it, after a corner wasn’t cleared. The ball bobbled about before it was hooked in off the underside of the bar. Seven minutes from the end came the equaliser, as a low free-kick bounced in front of the keeper, who fumbled and was put away by a sub who was lively throughout, showing potential.
A nice, friendly atmosphere to match the game, with many in attendance being MTU fans, not massively impressed with the goalkeeping error. Lat Krabang was extremely vibrant after the game, with bars, music, and lots of stalls and street food. Once my domain, but my good lady had prepared dinner for me back home.
Customs United 1 Chiangmai United 3
Thai League 2 - Sunday 13th August 2023) Thai League 2 (att: 428)
π¨π¨π§π§ 428 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
An enjoyable time spent in the company of Steve, with a songthaew taking us all the way to Lat Krabang, for craft beers at Kota, before a cab to the stadium for the 7pm kickoff. The usual street food snacks and large bottles of Leo were available. They could be, and were, consumed while watching the game.
We were treated to a watchable encounter on the opening weekend for the top two tiers in Thailand. I’d been given a tip to watch a player but couldn’t work out how his non-African appearance matched his shirt number, and why so many in our stand were cheering the away team.
The first goal went in for the boys in blue, Customs colours, after eighteen minutes. Then the scoreboard revealed that CMU were in blue, their regular change kit, and CU were in red, their second strip. A cock up by the away side’s kit man, no doubt.
Anyway, that goal scored by Pattara Soimalai had been coming for a while. Customs were alright, but the away team seemed physically stronger in all departments. The score was doubled when the marvellously named Brazilian, Mosquito, made it 2-0 shortly before halftime.
The game was put to bed two minutes after the restart when Ho Ju volleyed through a crowd past the motionless keeper Theerawat Pinpradub. Both he and opposing goalie Pirot Eammak would have been better off concentrating on their jobs than getting involved in any minor incident, with neither shy to roll around in fake pain.
Fortunately, referee Chaikrit Inboonsong wasn't fooled and had a good game. Defender Phattaraphon Gangsopa tapped in at the back post following a scramble to offer hope to the home side, who later hit the bar and saw one flaring opportunity being blasted over the bar. An upset Thossaporn Chuchin was sent off for the visitors for a second bookable offence.
Post-match, we gave a local a ride in our cab as he wanted to catch a train back into the city from the Airport Link station, while we jumped out and had another couple of beers at Rest Up, which served lovely fries. I dread to have seen the state of the chicken that the tender bits we were served came from.
Customs United 0 Suphanburi 0
Post-match, we gave a local a ride in our cab as he wanted to catch a train back into the city from the Airport Link station, while we jumped out and had another couple of beers at Rest Up, which served lovely fries. I dread to have seen the state of the chicken that the tender bits we were served came from.
Customs United 0 Suphanburi 0
Thai League 2 - Saturday 23rd December 2023
π¨π¨π§π§ 146 π️ 100 THB (£2.40)
This was a most pleasant afternoon and evening all told. My wife and I took her son and partner, plus a couple of young nephews, aged 9 and 11, for a wonderful alfresco lunch overlooking a lake before I took the lads with me for their first taste of a live match.
This was a most pleasant afternoon and evening all told. My wife and I took her son and partner, plus a couple of young nephews, aged 9 and 11, for a wonderful alfresco lunch overlooking a lake before I took the lads with me for their first taste of a live match.
They seemed to enjoy it, particularly the snacks and pop stalls. They got a bus, songthaew, and taxi ride, and I delivered them home safely to happy parents. I must admit, it made my day to share it with them. Hopefully, the first of a few adventures.
The match turned out to be an entertaining 0-0 in a 6pm kick-off with both sides playing fast, exciting football on the deck but failing to hit the target. Both keepers had their palms stung from decent shots, while several efforts went narrowly wide or over.
The away fans were unlikely to be buying the ref any Christmas presents, judging by the vitriol aimed in his direction at full-time. Suphanburi, pushing for a play-off place, were turned down a penalty, which I personally thought was the correct decision.
The away fans were unlikely to be buying the ref any Christmas presents, judging by the vitriol aimed in his direction at full-time. Suphanburi, pushing for a play-off place, were turned down a penalty, which I personally thought was the correct decision.
Customs had won at home the previous week but still found themselves in the relegation zone. I left thinking that they might have had enough to escape. The game in general was of a much higher standard than the T3 stuff I normally watched in Sisaket.
I enjoyed a couple of beers with my Bangkok-based pal Vaughan, as we chewed the fat while watching the game. I was in the capital at our suburban condo before we headed down the gulf the following morning to the seaside at Bangsaray to enjoy Christmas with friends.
I enjoyed a couple of beers with my Bangkok-based pal Vaughan, as we chewed the fat while watching the game. I was in the capital at our suburban condo before we headed down the gulf the following morning to the seaside at Bangsaray to enjoy Christmas with friends.
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