Kolkata: Fuja Tope’s inspired Peerless put up an combative show as Peerless holds an in-form Mohun Bagan by a goalless draw in the Calcutta Football League today. The result would certainly bring a smile on East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan’s face as the Red and Gold brigade in now the firm favourites.
Peerless played exceedingly well especially in the second half as Arghya came perilously close in finding the back of the net twice in the second half. In the 68th minute Arghya’s head came off the crosspiece from an Arijit Bagui cross from the right flank. In the 69th minute, Arghya’s powerful grounder missed the second post by a narrow margin.
Mohun Bagan tried to score a goal in the last quarter but defender Raju Gaikwad missed to put his header on target from a handshaking distance. New foreigner Daniel Bidemi tried his bit but Peerless defender Kingsley effortlessly defended all the dangers which came on his way. Peerless goalkeeper Shankar Roy too played a gem of a game. His brilliant performance under the bar earned him the man of the match award as well.
Though Mohun Bagan tried to have a strong grip in the last phase, Peerless didn’t bog down as they brought tides of counter attacks to trouble the Mariners’ defense. In fact, Mohun Bagan was in tremendous pressure in the closing minutes as the defenders were literally tottering to deal with the enthusiastic attacks of the likes of Rahim Nabi and Arghya.
The same Peerless side defeated the Green & Maroon brigade by 2-0 in the pre-season game as well. Perhaps the performance boosted the morale of the entire squad to confront with the likes of Darryl Duffy & company with their spirited show.
Fuja Tope’s men made it clear that the brawl before the start of the game regarding 3 changes in the team list in the last 15 minutes and the protest from Mohun Bagan couldn’t disturb the focus of the side.
It’s to see how East Bengal reacts to the advantage they have got in upcoming games to clinch the title. Or is there still a lot of drama left in the league battle? Only time can answer.
Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan coach Shankarlal Chakraborty said, “My players failed to implement the ideas. It was a complete poor performance from the boys. We need to forget this draw and come back strong. You cannot win all the matches.”