File Pic
Kolkata: After failing to win a single game up-till now, city giants East Bengal would be under huge pressure if they fail to gather 3 points in their next against Shillong Lajong at Barasat tomorrow.
The team that is likely to face Shillong will be:-
Luis Barreto, Arnab Mondal, Eduardo Ferreira, Lalram Chullova, Salamranjan Singh, Mahmoud Al Amna, Prakash Sarkar (U-22), Katsumi Yusa, Ralte, Willis Plaza, Charles D’Souza.
Reports have come from the team management which states that the encounter against Lajong could be a massive test for coach Khalid Jamil himself as his job may be under scrutiny. The officials are visually disappointed with his tactics of playing a lone striker when Plaza is going through a rough patch at this moment.
For the last few days the players too are disappointed after learning that the coach has segregated the team into two halves. Khalid takes his classes with the starting 11 and then takes the second class with the rest of the players. The above incident has also disturbed the club officials.
“I am as motivated as before but the only thing that is missing for me is the goals” said Plaza.
“We will play the most important match tomorrow and it’s true we have not performed according to the standard of the team. We are hopeful of achieving a victory tomorrow.” said Mahmouh Al Amna.
On being asked about the mistakes that has been committed, the Syrian midfielder said, ” We played decently in the first match but drew it owing to silly mistakes and in the derby we lost due to defensive mistakes”
Amna while being in Aizawl FC last season drew with Shillong in the last game and emerged as the champions to which he said, “Shillong Lajong is a different team and they are currently in the top of the league after winning 2 games. It will be difficult for both of the teams as they would be playing in a different environment while we will be playing for the first victory.”
On being questioned as to whether the team is facing problems in the striking position, Amna disturbingly replied, “One victory can change everything as for the striker issue, ask the coach”
“If you think it’s a do-or-die match then so be it. Not winning in 2 games doesn’t mean the end. We are not lost from the tournament” said a highly disturbed Amna when he was asked whether the next game will be a do-or-die encounter.
The pressure on Amna is quite evident as he is a bit disturbed with the strategy of the coach.”As a senior player I have duties for the team and I am here to support the team, a victory will change everything” concluded a disgusted Amna.