Mohun Bagan Get Their First ISL Win, But Missed Chances Remain a Major Concern

Photo courtesy: X – Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Gautam Ray

Mohun Bagan finally secured their first win in the ISL. They dominated the second half, but one familiar problem continues to haunt the Mariners in every match: their inability to convert numerous scoring opportunities. It was precisely this weakness that cost the Green and Maroon brigade dearly against NorthEast United in their opening game, when they conceded a late goal to suffer defeat. This time, however, they avoided another such setback. Making the most of two of their better chances, Mohun Bagan defeated Sporting Club Delhi 2-1. Erwin and Man of the Match Miguel scored for the Mariners, who had earlier fallen behind to a goal from their former player Hnamte.

Mohun Bagan started aggressively, putting Delhi under pressure right from the opening minutes. They could have taken the lead during that spell, but failed to capitalise. Delhi gradually found their feet, exploiting the considerable gap between Manolo Marquez's defensive line and midfield. Using their superior pace and physical strength, Delhi's players repeatedly troubled the Mohun Bagan defence. This Delhi side is physically stronger than many of their rivals.

Namte gave Delhi the lead in the 23rd minute. But why did an experienced defender like Alberto Rodriguez hesitate, seemingly expecting an offside call?

Mohun Bagan had opportunities to equalise before half-time. Anirudh Thapa failed to get a touch on Drazic's cross, while Erwin could not produce a proper shot after receiving Thapa's overhead pass in space.

Apart from the opening minutes, Delhi enjoyed too much freedom in midfield because Mohun Bagan lacked quick transitions. Miguel and Apuia tried to make things happen, but the team's zonal marking was far from effective.

The second half, however, was a completely different story. Miguel, Apuia and Thapa began covering much more ground, while Chhangte and Drazic launched repeated attacks. The quicker transitions closed the gaps between defence and midfield, allowing Mohun Bagan to take control and put Delhi under sustained pressure.

Two goals followed in quick succession. Erwin equalised to make it 1-1 before Apuia produced a superb forward run, slicing through three or four defenders before setting up Miguel inside the box. Miguel finished with a precise, low shot into the far corner to put Mohun Bagan ahead.

Vishal Kaith also made another outstanding save during the match. Yet a question remains: after playing such dominant football in the second half and creating so many chances, why could Mohun Bagan not score more goals?

Jelkovic saw his effort saved by the Delhi goalkeeper. In stoppage time, a powerful strike from Manvir struck the goalkeeper's hand before crashing against the crossbar. But why did Liston Colaco blaze such a simple chance over the bar? And in the dying moments, a Delhi counter-attack involving Rodriguez created another opportunity that Mohun Bagan were fortunate to survive. Had Delhi converted it, the Mariners would have paid a heavy price once again.

The absence of Jamie Maclaren is becoming increasingly evident. Although Erwin scored, he wasted several other opportunities and also showed a tendency to be selfish in possession. At the end of the match, Marquez could not hide his frustration, lamenting the absence of Maclaren.

Maclaren is yet to return to action, but Miguel started this match. Although he was perhaps not at his best, his presence helped create more openings in attack. Unfortunately, he suffered another injury and had to leave the field on a stretcher.

If Mohun Bagan are to shine like genuine title contenders, they will need both Miguel and Maclaren back at full fitness. Their return could make all the difference for the Mariners.

Tighten the match report for flowReduce repeated rhetorical questions