Renedy Singh: It was a historic moment today to see the first ever Manipuri team playing against Kolkata giant East Bengal in Manipur and it was fantastic to see the enthusiasm among the supporters.
Red and Gold’s were very much on top in the first half but, they failed to convert some easy chances as their star player Mahmoud Al Amna missed a very good chance.
Undoubtedly the away side is better not only for their star players but also for the experience to play in the big stages like I League, AFC cup ties but, in North East it’s different story all together it’s not easy to win a game here as it is turning out to be another hub of Indian football by producing some outstanding talents for India.
In the second half Neroca came back strongly specially after Gourmangi came in. He is the most important player for Neroca but, he was injured so he compelled to play as stopper in last few matches. Today he was back in midfield and suddenly they turned into a better side and scored the goal.
You have to grab the opportunities in the matches like that because Neroca is a very good side now as they are third in the table. They held another Kolkata giant Mohun Bagan in Kolkata. It also won’t be easy to win against Shilong Lajong in their home match.
Both sides will be happy with the one point but, they have to play better football to win the title. East Bengal were not dominant today as it was evenly poised till the end.