By Monojit Mandal
As the I-League 2023-24 season draws near, Shillong Lajong FC’s head coach, Bobby Nongbet, shared his insights on the team’s objectives and goals for the upcoming competition, shedding light on their strategy for success.
The exclusive interview with The Shillong Times, provides a glimpse into the club’s ambitions and the challenges they anticipate in a league that promises fierce competition.
Nongbet emphasized the team’s primary focus on top- 3 finish, unity, teamwork, and playing a distinctive style of football. He stated, “We want to focus on team work, unity, and play in a unique style of football. We would like all the players to give their best on the pitch.” This commitment to a cohesive team effort reflects Shillong Lajong FC’s determination to excel in the I-League.
When asked about the specific goals for the season, Nongbet revealed that the club’s ambition is to secure a top 3 finish in the I-League. “We would like all the players to give their best on the pitch and therefore we are aiming for a top 3 finish in the I-league,” he added. This is a significant target considering the increased competition and high stakes in the league.
Notably, the I-League will be played at the SSA Stadium in Shillong for the first time, adding to the excitement for both the team and fans. Nongbet underlined the importance of collecting maximum points from home matches, making the support of their fans crucial to achieving their goals.
Regarding the level of competition in the I-League this year, Nongbet acknowledged the challenge posed by other teams. He explained, “Since we have not been in the I-league for the last four seasons, it’s not easy to understand the level yet, but we believe the league has improved very much.” Nongbet recognized the improvements in player performance, both domestically and internationally, making the I-League a more challenging and competitive environment.
The I-League is known for its intense competition, and Nongbet stressed that success in the league requires hard work, discipline, and perseverance. He believes that fostering a winning mentality through rigorous training is essential for Shillong Lajong FC to gain an edge over their opponents and conquer the league.