PHUKET: Running Phuket FC is like driving a Mercedes into the sea once a month, says the football club's No. 1 supporter and patron on the eve of a new and very promising season.

And he should know. Phuket FC's leading benefactor, resorts owner Pamuke Acariyachai, reckons he has tipped 60 million or 70 million baht into the club's coffers.

Whether he sees a dividend should become evident this Saturday, when Phuket FC opens the Division One season with a match against Big Bang-CU at Army Stadium in Bangkok.

As BBCU is a relegation after just one season in Thailand's Premier League, it's a fitting way to get cracking.

Signs are good. Phuket has invested in a new coach, Panipon Kerdyam, and he has invested some of Khun Pamuke's fleet of Mercedes in quality talent.

''When I began with Phuket, I knew it wasn't going to be easy,'' he said. ''Now we have a strong team.

''The players are happy to play and hungry to win. If we can win all our home games and score in away games, we will move up to the Premier league.''

Khun Pamuke is keen to see some positive returns.

''We have to make the most of this opportunity,'' he said. ''When you think about it, Phuket really should be up with the best in Thailand.''

The club has been out and about at Phuket schools, introducing youngsters to the basics of the game and making sure they become Phuket FC fans.

A student card will get you in the door at Surakul Stadium, the home ground in Phuket City, for free.

Phuket's growing band of fans will not have long to wait. The first big game at home against Bangkok FC is coming on March 10.