Royal aim to break Bagan’s unbeaten run
SHILLONG: Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten run in the Hero I-League this season is all set to be tested when they take on hosts Royal Wahingdoh FC at the JN Stadium here on Saturday.
An exciting contest is on the cards as debutants RWFC, who have had an excellent run in the season so far, lock horns with League leaders Mohun Bagan who threaten to bag the top honors this time round. The proximity of sides in the points table also makes Saturday’s encounter crucial for both sides, one looking to create history in its maiden I-League season while the other aspiring to bag the title after years.
Currently Bagan are sitting at 28 points from 12 games with 8 wins and 4 draws while the Royals are at 23 points from 14 games with 6 wins, 5 draws and 3 losses.
On the eve of the tie RWFC coach, Santosh Kashyap decided to take the attack to the opposition stating that the visitors could be under pressure coming to the tie with the tag of being unbeaten and League leaders.
Reacting to a query on whether the Royals were feeling the heat ahead of the tie taking into account their title ambitions, Kashyap said that being debutants there was no reason for his side to be under pressure for they have already done well in the season to reach this level.
“We are definitely chasing the table but that does not mean that we are under pressure. Our main aim is to put up a good show and if we win the title in the process, it would be considered a bonus for us,” Kashyap said adding that the pressure should rather be on Bagan.
The RWFC coach, however, added that both the hosts and the Mariners were doing well at the moment and are known to play attacking football. Hence, the fans can look forward to a competitive match on Saturday.
Reacting to another query, the RWFC coach said that there were no special plans in place to tackle the likes of Sony Norde, Boya and Katsumi.
“At this level you have to be prepared to face quality players at every stage,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bagan coach Sanjoy Sen too expected a tough contest on Saturday and declined the favorites tag for his side ahead of the crucial tie.
He reiterated that his side was taking it one match at a time and the focus was to gain maximum points from each encounter.
“If you aim to be the champion you have to aim to win every match be it at home or away,” he said.
The Bagan coach was also all praise for the Royals.
Star striker Jackichand Singh and Bekay Bawar remain doubtful for the Royals, while Lallawnzuala will miss the tie on Saturday.