Kolkata: After producing a superb performance against Patha Chakra, Raghu Nandi’s Mohammedan Sporting is getting ready to maintain the momentum against impressive Peerless AC.
The Black Panthers technical director Raghu Nandi said his team hope to sustain their surge up the league standings.
Mohammedan SC are fourth on the Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ log with 10 points, while Peerless SC also with 10 points hang on the third spot both after 5 games.
“I am impressed with the commitment of my boys as we are gradually finding our shape. We are slowly getting to know and understand ourselves the more and before long,” said Nandi.
“Yes, we did not start too well as we would have wished but we are steadily getting into our groove. I respect Peerless as a formidable side but we have what it takes to stop them. We are focused to make our fans happy,” he added.
The Black Panthers returned to winning form in the league by defeating Pathachkara Club 3-0 earlier this week, thanks to goals from Tonmoy Ghosh, Princewill Emeka and Dipendu Dowary.
Nonetheless, despite Mohammedan SC’s commanding performance against Pathachakra, the match seem evenly poised as Peerless SC have proven themselves to be a lethal attacking force. With the likes of Ansumana Kromah and Trinidadian World Cupper Anthony Wolfe in the ranks, Peerless SC will always pose a goal threat.
Meanwhile, with Mohammedan SC struggling to break down defenses, they will need more attacking impetus from their midfield. Bazie Armand could be key in this regard, with his wide range of skills and versatility making him the perfect bridge from defense to the forwards.
The Black Panthers will also need Princewill Emeka to return to his his best form. The Nigerian striker will need to up his game and prove to Nandi that he remains a key driving force for the Black Panthers, especially after the arrival of new striker Philip Adjah.
Peerless SC, on the other hand, will be hoping for a better performance compared to their last game, which saw them beaten 3-1 by Calcutta Customs on Monday.
Peerless SC coach Biswajit Bhattachraya said their plan for this match is simple, frustrate the Black Panthers and make sure they don’t score.
“The pressure is on them, they are a big team, playing at home. We know the longer the match continues without them getting a goal, the bigger their frustration will become and they will start to panic. Once you start to panic you’re bound to make mistakes. We want to pounce on those mistakes,” he said.