PHUKET: FC Phuket triumphed 4-1 last night for new coach Sompong Wattana in a match that had aspects of the apocalypse to it.

A minute's silence for seven football fans killed in a tragic bus crash was followed by a game in Phuket City that contained a confrontation by Phuket fans with the referee, severe downpours, and two red cards for Chainat FC before the final outcome.

Phuket showed new muscularity on the field and in presenting for the first time the ''Hulk'' mascot, ending forever the chances of fans chanting on the rather less robust ''Southern Sea Kirins.''

That refreshing air of reality continued on-field, with Niran Phanthong scoring at the 25-minute mark. Right on the break, Chainat netted an equaliser - and officials had to call for calm as the ''Hulk'' fans condemned the referee and linesmen for allowing the goal.

The Hulk hardcore, it will be recalled, chanted for the resignation of Khun Sompong's predecessor and humiliated him at the previous home game at Surakul Stadium in Phuket City.

The rowdiness appeared to infect the players, with NeNe Bi scoring quicky after the break and goals by Sarat Au-Yen at 71 minutes and Ranato Remto at 85 minutes sealing the result.

Chainat, with two red cards, stood no chance at the finish and did not look like the fourth-best side in Division One.

FC Phuket will take heart into their match against Shongkhal FC on June 25 at Surakul, rescheduled after the previous match was cancelled because of the flooding of southern provinces in March.