A first-half goal by Jonathan Bolingi proved enough for Buriram United to claim a 1-0 victory at Samut Prakan City and keep their foes at an arm's length in Thai League 1 on Saturday night.
The Thunder Castle's tally improved to 45 points from 21 matches, giving them a hefty eight-point advantage over Bangkok United.
Bangkok United are scheduled to visit struggling PT Prachuap this evening.
It was a close contest in Samut Prakan.
Only a few moments after Bolingi gave former champions Buriram the upper hand in the 42nd minute, the hosts felt they have been denied a chance to level the match by the match referee.
A headed clearance by Chaiyawat Buran hit his Buriram teammate Phansa Hemviboon's hand inside the box and the home players lodged an appeal for a penalty.
However, the match referee, after consulting the VAR officials, decided against awarding a spot kick and the visitors were able to defend their lead until the final whistle to claim three points.
Elsewhere, Muang Thong United were unable to break through a defensive wall erected by promoted Nongbua Pitchaya to settle for a goalless draw in the away game.
However, the result is good enough to help the Kirins keep a bunch of other clubs attempting to finish among the top four in sight.
In another game last night, Ibson Melo was the architect of Khon Kaen United's 2-1 victory in a northeastern derby at Nakhon Ratchasima.
Melo picked up his first goal of the match after 20 minutes and was on target again soon after the break.
The Swat Cats did not give up their quest for a point from the match but their efforts could only deliver an injury-time goal by Chalermpong Kerdkaew.
