IFA Shield: Mohun Bagan eyeing to win the first trophy of the season against FC Pune City

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All eyes will be on Mohun Bagan U-19 goal-keeper Sanjay Bhattacharya in the 121st IFA Shield Final against FC Pune City tomorrow. File Pic

Kolkata: Mohun Bagan in front of another opportunity to win their first trophy of the season as the Mohun Bagan Colts are all set to play the final against FC Pune City on Sunday which happens to be a ‘revenge battle’ for Jo Paul Anchery’s boys. The last time the Mariners won the IFA Shield Trophy, was back in  when the Green and Maroon Brigade defeated arch rivals Kingfisher East Bengal on tie-breaker. But during that time the charm of the tournament was different as it was a senior level tournament.

Mohun Bagan last played the IFA Shield final back in 2011 when they lost to Churchill Brothers by 1-2. Though Mohun Bagan has played really well throughout the competition and defeated teams like Minerva Academy, TFA and Patha Chakra, the only team who defeated them, will be their opposition in the final. In the group stage, Jo Paul Anchery’s team lost to FC Pune City by a solitary goal scored by Ghani Ahmed Nigam.

Mohun Bagan coach Jo Paul Anchery said, “There won’t be any pressure on us. Told my boys to play free flowing football. Life won’t be finished if we don’t win the title tomorrow. I asked my boys not to take any extra pressure. It will be good that the game would be played at the Mohun Bagan ground. The support of the fans will be an added bonus.”

Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Sanjay Kumar Bhattacharya had a brilliant game in the semi final when he single-handedly lifted his side to the final with three brilliant saves in the tie-breaker. Expection would be there on his as well to perform in the big occasion.