Agencies
Kolkata
Mohun Bagan look to continue their stride towards defending their Hero I-League crown as they take on Salgaocar at the Barasat Stadium in Kolkata.
While the Mariners marched on to a win against new boys Aizawl FC in spite of an indifferent performance, Salgaocar suffered a loss against Bengaluru FC in their own backyard.
New boss Malky Thomson did not have the services of Calvin Mbarga and Martin Scott against the Blues but the side will be bolstered by their return against the reigning Hero I-League champions.
“All my players have trained and I do not have any problems when it comes to injuries,” said the Scottish.
Last season’s standout player, Jackichand Singh will be deployed on the wings while Manandeep Singh might get a start against Mohun Bagan, alongside Daryl Duffy.
In spite of creating chances against Bengaluru FC and scoring a goal, The Greens were guilty of spurning a few quality chances.
On the flip side Mohun Bagan turned in a poor performance but ended up comfortably winning 3-1 thanks to the brilliant partnership up front with Balwant Singh and Cornell Glen combining perfectly.
While Balwant has a muscle strain, coach Sanjoy Sen is confident of Balwant, “If Balwant is uncomfortable, I will put in Jeje (Lalpekhlua) who is training with us and looks fit.”
Pronay Haldar, Brandon Fernandes, Luciano Sobrosa joined the team alongside Jeje. Luciano who impressed in the training match, will be paired with Kingshuk Debnath.
BOX
Semboi to bolster Salgaocar strikeforce
MARGAO: Thongkhosiem Haokip better known as Semboi has joined Salgaocar Football Club for the ongoing Hero I-League 2015-16. Semboi had a fruitful season with Pune FC (now defunct) last season. He also scored a hat-trick for FC Goa in the second ISL.
He will add strength to the Salgaocar FC frontline and is available immediately having joined training with his team mates already. Semboi was also recently awarded the “Young Player of the Year” at the Football Players Association of India’s “ Indian Football Awards (voted by all fellow players in India). Semboi was the top Indian scorer in the last I-League (season 2014-15) with 7 goals.
“I am happy to come to Salgaocar FC and look forward to doing my best with the team. I have already commenced training with the team and I would like to thank the coach and the management who have reposed faith in me,” said Semboi. the season.
