Bagan take on Dempo in crucial encounter

Source: AIFF
KOLKATA: McDowells Mohun Bagan is all set to host Dempo SC knowing nothing less than a win will keep them in contention for the title, in the 22nd round I League encounter at the Yuba Bharati Krinangan, on Sunday (April 1, 2012).

Mohun Bagan are on 38 points from 21 matches while Dempo SC are sitting on top of the League with 46 points from 21 outings.

The Goans chose to practice at the S.A.I ground just outside the stadium rather than Mariners ground which was offered to them by the home team adding early spark to the encounter.

Armando Colaco, head coach of Dempo said, “There are no big teams or small teams, when it comes down to match day.” “We might have defeated Bagan in Goa, but even we have lost to a team like Air India. Every team in this league is difficult to beat and Sunday will be no different,” he maintained.

Dempo SC have full squad for the match with no injuries or suspensions.

Dempo’s Ranti Martins when asked if the match was a dual between Bagan’s Odafa Okolie and himself, he said, “Its a big match for us as well as for Bagan and all members of both teams will be giving their all in the match. It’s not a battle between individuals.”

Meanwhile, Prasanta Banerjee coach of Mohun Bagan said, “The past match is history; we need to look forward for tomorrows match. We will once again look towards to Odafa to do well in this match.” However, if we fail to win the match then our aim of winning the Championship would be more or less over,” he added.

With both teams having a near full squad for the match, the clash seems to be an exciting one on the cards. 

Chirag Kerala host Pune FC
KOCHI: Chirag United Kerala would host Pune FC in the 22nd round I League encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, on Sunday. The Pune outfit have downed the Kerala side 3-1, in their last match in November. 

Chirag's season seem to have finally took off as they registered back-to-back wins against Air India and Shillong Lajong in the league. The match against Lajong proved the worth of Chirag's midfield live wire Vineeth CK, who has been a revelation this season scoring six goals in the league so far. 

The youngster has conducted himself very well in the absence of experienced players like captain Ajayan and striker Anil Kumar PK. His service would be again called on for playing a pivotal role on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Pune FC will be once again without Indian international Jeje Lalpekhlua after forward suffered an injury that sidelined him for a prolonged period. 

Pune FC right back Othallo Tabia said, “We have been working hard all season, now its time for us to consolidate our position on the league table among the top teams.” Othallo will be one of the three players who would take field against their former employers on Sunday; Karma Tsewang and Shahinlal Meloly are the others.

Pune have 37 points from 21 matches while Chirag United Kerala stays at 17 points from 20 outings. 

In the last five meetings with between the two teams, Pune FC enjoys clear advantage over Chirag Kerala as they won three out of five and drew two.

The Kick-off is is slated for 3 pm on April 1, 2012.

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