Following two consecutive setbacks, second-placed Buriram United cannot afford another slip-up when they visit Chonburi in Thai League 1 on Saturday.
After a 1-0 loss to champions BG Pathum United last week and a scoreless home draw with newcomers Nongbua Pitchaya in midweek, Buriram are behind True Bangkok United on goal difference.
Pathum are three points behind the leading duo with a game in hand.
While Buriram have been struggling, fourth-placed Chonburi have secured three successive league wins.
The Sharks, who are five points off the pace, defeated PT Prachuap in midweek with goals from Israel's Gidi Kanyuk and Worachit Kanitsribampen.
Chonburi coach Sasom Pobprasert is brimming with confidence and thinks that his men can rub salt into Buriram's wounds.
"We have had good results for many games in a row," said Sasom. "We are at home so we should get a draw or even a win. We all know that Buriram are a good and strong team. But our players are in confident mood following successive wins. We hope to continue our good performance."
The Sharks have been playing well although striker Dennis Murillo has failed to find the back of the net for many games.
"I am not worried much about Dennis' goal drought. Every striker has experienced such a spell. Dennis looks tired and I am thinking about resting him in certain matches."
Pathum will also be looking to bounce back from their midweek setback when they squandered a number of chances in their scoreless draw with Nakhon Ratchasima.
The Rabbits are at home to Samut Prakan on Saturday.
On Sunday, Bangkok United travel to promoted side Khon Kaen United, hoping to continue their hot streak.
The Angels have scored nine goals in their previous two games.
On Thursday night, Sarawut Treephan got off to a winning start in his second stint as coach of Port who defeated Ratchaburi 1-0.
Bodin Phala scored the winner in the 69th minute at PAT Stadium.
"We are very happy that we won," said Sarawut. "We will keep working hard to go back to where we should be."
Sarawut replaced Dusit Chamlermsan, who quit on Thursday after a string of poor results.
