Kolkata: Mohun Bagan U-19 team beat Tata Football Academy 1-0 in a do or die match of 121st IFA Shield on Saturday to reach the semifinal of the tournament. They will face AIFF Academy on June 7.
Like the last two matches Mohun Bagan failed to convert a lot of chances against TFA. At the 87th minute of the game Deepak Tangri broke the dead lock for the Mariners as he scored the solitary goal for his side. He received a throw from the left side of the side line and lobbed it past the TFA goal-keeper to give Mohun Bagan a crucial victory in the do or die match. Punjab lad Deepak Tangri joined Mohun Bagan Academy four years back from Chandigarh Football Academy. He plays as a defender but the Green and Maroon brigade won today’s game through his solitary goal. Deepak is an admirer of Mohun Bagan’s star defender Anas Edathodika.
“I am a big fan of Anas bhai. He is a great defender and whenever I get a chance I always take tips from him. It was a do or die match for us and I am happy that I have contributed for my team. I am hopful that we will carry this form in the semi final against the AIFF Academy.”
He also added,” Our seniors failed to give any trophy to the club, but we want to win the IFA Shield Trophy for our club and the supporters.”
According to Mohun Bagan U-19 coach Jo Paul Ancheri,” We created a lot of chances in the second-half of the game and that is the main reason for our win. But our forwards have failed to convert a lot of chances in these three matches. We still have four days in our hand to discuss about it, hope team will do well in the semi-final.”
On the other hand IFA is trying to organise the two semifinals and final under flood lights. The parent body of Bengal football has two options in their hand. One is Mohun Bagan Ground and the other is Barasat Stadium. If Mohun Bagan ground hosts the last three matches under flood lights there will be a huge possibility of a ‘Mini Derby’ in the final, as East Bengal will face Mohammedan Sporting Club in the last game of Group A. If East Bengal somehow manages to win the game there is a possibility of a ‘Mini Derby’ under flood lights at the Mohun Bagan Ground.