SHILLONG: Looking to extend their incredible run of form, Rangdajied United FC will take on East Bengal in Kolkata on Sunday afternoon in a crucial I-League encounter.
Both teams will look for maximum points – Rangdajied to secure their position outside the relegation zone, while the hosts still have a chance at the title.
Sunday’s game will be a big test for the reinvigorated Blues, who have won three matches on the trot in Shillong under the tutelage of coach Hering Shangpliang along with the formidable Ranti Martins leading the strike force.
The Kolkata fixture will thus demonstrate whether Rangdajied have the wherewithal to perform at the top away from home as well.
Despite climbing up the table to eighth place with 21 points, RUFC are still only six points ahead of bottom club Churchill Brothers, who have played two fewer games (17 to 19).
East Bengal, meanwhile, are in seventh position on 24 points from 16 outings.
They also have some form against Rangdajied, having beaten them 2-1 in Shillong last December.
The goal for Rangdajied will be to take something away from Kolkata and they have happy memories of the city, as it was the location for their first ever victory in the I-League when they defeated Mohun Bagan 2-0 on December 1.
“From here on, we are only going for three points,” Shangpliang was quoted as saying on the official I-League website on Saturday. “I don’t go for a draw. I don’t go for one point. I am very positive in my approach.”
Meanwhile, the Red & Golds have had an inconsistent season this time around, having yet to win back-to-back matches.
Their last fixture was a disappointing 0-0 draw at home to Shillong Lajong FC and a loss to Rangdajied would virtually end their title hopes.
The Kolkatan giants are also facing an injury crisis as four top players – Uga Okpara, Mehtab Hossain, Lalrindika Ralte and Shylo Malswamtluanga – are unfit.
With Lajong also involved in a match on Sunday, this could prove to be a massive day for the football fans of the North East.
