VASCO DA GAMA, Dec 6: ATK Mohun Bagan will look to extend their winning streak when they take on a determined Jamshedpur FC in an Indian Super League fixture here at the Tilak Maidan on Monday.
With three wins, ATKMB have looked exceptional so far both in attack and defence. They are yet to concede this season and have faced the least number of shots on target (4) so far.
Jamshedpur, on the other hand, haven’t been enjoying a great start with two draws and a loss in their three matches. But coach Owen Coyle believes that they can still upset their more fancied opponents.
“Every game is a challenge. The league has shown that every game is very tight. ATKMB have started well in terms of points and achieved good results. So we are looking forward to the game,” Coyle said.
“We showed in our recent performances that we can go toe-to-toe (with anyone). What we want to do is to convert the draws into wins and those three points and obviously, that moves us up the table. That’s our focus,” he added.
Coyle believes that a win at this juncture will lend them the necessary momentum for a prolonged push. “It’s important to build momentum and when you build momentum, one can achieve results,” said Coyle.
“Certain areas, we need to work on. We have shown that we can score goals. I think we’ll have to make sure that we are more solid and not give up on chances.”
Most of Jamshedpur’s problems lie in their defending. Manned by Stephen Eze and Peter Hartley, Coyle’s men have allowed a league-high 17 shots on target this season. Another important reason behind the underwhelming performances of Jamshedpur is their inability to take control of the middle of the park.
However, with four goals in three matches, the Jamshedpur-based outfit appears to have a strong attacking unit, which will pose a threat to ATK Mohun Bagan’s solid defence.
Nerijus Valskis has continued his run from last season, with three goals in three matches for Jamshedpur, and will hope for better deliveries from the wings.
ATKMB coach Antonio Habas believes the defence has played as important a role as the attack in their good start. “It’s important to start the competition with three clean sheets. The team acquired confidence, progressed and improved as this is the best way forward. The secret is more tactical discipline and effort,” Habas said.
The Spaniard pointed out that there are areas where his side still needs to improve. “We have to improve in central midfield. I think Jamshedpur will be a difficult team for us. They have good players in the squad and I know Owen and he will prepare the team well,” Habas said. (PTI)
