By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakraborty has urged his side to forget the 6-0 drubbing they handed out to Army XI last weekend when they face Tollygunge Agragami in the Calcutta Football League on Thursday.

The match was originally scheduled on August 29 but has been abandoned in stoppage time at tied 1-1 after assistant referee Ujjal Haldar canceled Bagan’s Azharuddin Mallick’s goal for offside which saw Mohun Bagan fans invaded the playing area and threw objects on the ground.

Bagan officials later demanded for a replay which IFA accepted however Tollygunge, initially, did oppose the decision but eventually agreed to play the match avoiding a clash with the parent body.

“Tollygune is a strong side. They have put on a great show in the game that has been abandoned so we have to be cautious in our approach and need to avoid mistakes, committed last time around,” coach Sankarlal said ahead his team’s penultimate game in the CFL.

Going into the game Mohun Bagan will be without the services of regular centre-backs in Sanjay Balmuchu and Raju Gaikwad alongside winger Prabir Das who left for their respective ISL franchises. However, coach Sankarlal feels that it’s high time for the young players in the squad to step up in the absence of the seniors which will be a good positive sign for their future.

Tollygune, on the other hand, are on 8 points from 6 games just a point above the relegation zone therefor the Ranjan Chaudhury-led side will be eager to notch up a positive result allowing themselves some breating space in the league table.

Facing Mohun Bagan, Tollygunge will be relying on strike pair of Joel Sunday and Alfred Jaryan for goals upfront. Joining them will be the likes of Surabuddin Mallick,  Rakesh Masih and Reisangmei Vashum who would play a crucial role in the midfield.

The game at Mohun Bagan Ground kicks off at 5.30 pm on Thursday and there will be no telecast.

Ujjal Sarkhel

Kolkata: Mohun Bagan will look to put the controvery over the Kolkata Derby, which never happend, behind when they face off against Army XI in their next match of the ongoing Calcutta Football League at Mohun Bagan Ground on Saturday.

Mohun Bagan were scheduled to play the first Kolkata Derby of the season against East Bengal on Wednesday but the match was called off after Mohun Bagan turned down to play the derby saying they needed at least one day for practice at Kalyani Stadium before the match and over 6,000 tickets for their members and gave walkover to East Bengal.

This almost ensured the championship for East Bengal as the Red and Golds only need one point to console their seventh successive league title, eclipsing their own feat of six back-to-back triumphs.

However, if East Bengal looses in their last two matches and Mohun Bagan wins their remaining three then they will have a chance to win the CFL, which is Mohun Bagan’s only motivation going into the game against Army XI.

Talking about this tie Bagan coach will maintain the same starting lineup which played in their last match against United Sports Club. Daniel Bidemi will pair with Darryl Duffy in upfront. Pankaj Moula, Prabir Das, Azaharuddin Mallick and Saran Singh will take the responsibility in midfield while Raju Gaikward and Sanjay Balmuchu will lead in central  defense and Chinta Chandrasekhar  Rao and Tanmoy Ghosh as the side backs.

“Though my team not played in the derby match due to some problems, but my boys are fully focused to play the last three matches and will give 100% to win those, I am still hoping for some miracle in the league.Army XI is a very good team with have some quality players but my boys is ready to face the chllange” said Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakrabarty.

Army XI, on the other hand, will go all out to win their crucial tie after beating Bhawanipore Club 3-2 in their last fixture.

For the record last year in CFL Army XI defeated 1-0 Mohun Bagan in an exciting encounter. This year Army’s front line have weakened a bit with their star player Arjun Tudu has left for ISL 3 but the likes of Francis Zonuthanga, Lallianmawia, Sinenlo Kath Rengma and Jain Punchakadan are back from Durand Cup which will give a lot of confidence to the Army side.

The match will kick off at 5.30 pm and will televised at ETV News Bangla.

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club’s title hopes in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A crushed following a 2-2 draw against United SC on Thursday.

After a barren first-half Mohammedan SC surged ahead through Leonce Dodoz (64th) before Manvir Singh doubled the advantage four minutes later. United SC, meanwhile, fought back in the later stages and equalised through Eric Brown (76th) and Manotosh Chakladar (80th) at Barasat Stadium.

Going into the game Mohammedan SC head coach Mridul Banerjee made two changes from the side that played goalless aganist Peerless SC. Kamran Farooque and Mohammad Soukat came at the expenses of Pranit Lama and Usman Ashik.

The Black Panthers began the game in attacking mode and created a couple of close chances early on. While Manvir did well to get into spaces, the striker lacked the finish in the final third.

As the half progressed, Mohammedan SC started dominating the possession. On the other hand, United SC defended deep and had their custodian Abhijit Das to thank after he denied Dodoz and Manvir on several occasions as both sides went into the breather tied at goalless.

The second half began with both sides engaging in some end-to-end action in the opening minutes. Having gone close on a few occasions early on, Mohammedan SC took the lead in the 64th minute. A low cross floated in from the left by Dipendu Dowary found Dodoz in the box and the Ivorian slotted with a powerful low shot across the goal.

Having scored, Mohammedan SC increased their pressure and attacked the rival goal ferociously going close on a few occasions. Four minutes later, Mohammedan SC’s pressure yielded another goal when Manvir got on the scoresheet off an Mumtaz Akhtar pass.

United SC, at the other end, pulled a goal back when Eric converted from the spot. The penalty was awarded to United SC after Kamran brought down Jagannath Oraon inside the box.

Thereafter, Mohammedan SC continued to push up and create chances but once again lack of finishing touch in the rival box led them down.

While Mohammedan SC pressed high up, opponents United SC managed to take the lead against the run of the play. Manotosh Chakladar capitalised on error by Mohammedan SC custodian Sayan Roy to score the equaliser.

In the final few minutes of the game, both sides tried hard for the winner couldn’t break the deadlock as the game ended in a 2-2 draw.

Mohammedan SC, who are on 17 points from 8 games, are now out of the title contention and will face East Bengal next on Sunday at Kalyani Stadium.

Photo by: Ujjal Sarkhel

KOLKATA: For the first time in 31 years Kolkata Derby witnessed walkover, when Mohun Bagan did not fielded their team against East Bengal in a CFL tie at Kalyani Stadium on Wednesday.

Since beginning, the match was mired in controversy after a makeshift structure to enhance the capacity to 16000 from 7500, did not meet safety requirements and Mohun Bagan cited a shortfall in the tickets made available to their 6234 club members.

Mohun Bagan further demanded for at least 48 hours of practice at the match venue and stated said they are not turning up at the venue on Wednesday, unless it’s deferred.

However, The Governing Body of West Bengal football was in no mood to defer the match beyond September 7 and informed that the match will take place on it’s slated date, after a meeting held Tuesday afternoon.

Mohun Bagan, meanwhile, remain firm on their stand and stated it won’t be possible for them to play the match if their both demands are not fulfilled.

This led to East Bengal getting a walkover first time since 1985. The Red and Golds players as well as fans arrived at the Stadium with banners and flags in the match, but nowhere were the Mohun Bagan team seen.

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club face a daunting task against United Sports Club at the Barasat Stadium on Thursday.

The CFL Premier Division – A fixture promises to be a intense battle involving high stakes. If Mohammedan SC, who are on 16 points, fails to win then they will be out of the out of the title contention while a negetive result would make United SC’s relegation battle harder.

Mohammedan SC’s title chase have faltered after a goalless draw against Peerless SC on Sunday, but a win against United SC would definately rekindle their hopes. Mohammedan SC are five points behind the leaders East Bengal, against whom they have the match left, there is a feeling in the camp that all is not lost yet.

“I am not willing to look at the title. That is still some time away. I am only interested in the game against United SC and we will look at other possibilities only later,” said Mohammedan SC head coach Mridul Bannerjee.

“At the beginning nobody gave us a chance but boys showed tremendous character to bring us where we are right now. The league is not over yet what we have to do is just keep winning. It’s not easy but certainly achievable,” he continued.

Like coach Bannerjee said, winning every game will not be easy, and he admitted it will not be a cakewalk against a fighting United SC.

The addition of Eric Brown has changed United SC’s fortunes as the Purple Brigade now look more dangerous, and proved this with a couple of victories against George Telegraph and Bhawanipore.

They were however pegged back by Mohun Bagan in the last game. But with the likes of Suhair VP, Sankar Oraon, Budhiram Tudu, Bello Rasaq and Manotosh Chakladar in their ranks the Partha Sen-led side is confident that they can avoid the drop.

“We have to be alert in defence against United SC. They are a strong side in attack and can cause problems for any team but with all said and done tomorrow we are going all out for the win,” coach Bannerjee concluded.

Facing United SC, The Black Panthers will be without the services of left-back Pranit Lama Tamang, who picked up a couple of yellow cards, and Kamran Farooque is likely fill in as the replacement.

Last time when these two teams meet in the CFL Premier Division in 2013, Mohammedan SC escaped with a narrow 3-2 win courtesy a goal each from Josimar, Dipendu Biswas and Basanta Singh at Saltlake Stadium.

The game at Barasat Stadium kicks off at 5.30 pm on Thursday and it will be televised live on ETV News Bangla.

Photo By Santanu Biswas.

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: After an extended period of drama, Mohun Bagan on Tuesday finally decided not to play the CFL Premier Division – A derby scheduled to take place at Kalyani Stadium on Wednesday.

In a letter sent to IFA yesterday, Mohun Bagan demanded for at least 48 hours of practice at the match venue and a total of over 6000 tickets for their club members and asked for the game to be rescheduled for a later date.

However, The Governing Body of West Bengal football was in no mood to defer the match beyond September 7 and informed that the match will take place on it’s slated time, after a meeting held this afternoon.

Mohun Bagan, meanwhile, remain firm on their stand and stated it won’t be possible for them to play the match if their both demands are not fulfilled.

“As a governing body of football in the state you should accept to our logic of providing 48 hours for preparation as it very essential for the team to understand the surface and size of the field and get themselves accustomed with the condition,” Mohun Bagan stated in a letter sent to IFA this evening.

 We once again reiterate that at least 48 hours of time has to be provided to our team for preparation of the match at Kalyani stadium and accordingly defer the date of the match as it will not possible to play the match tomorrow.”  The letter continued.

This will result in a walkover to their opponents, first time in CFL since 1985, if not something drastic happens over night.

Kolkata: Uncertainty hangs over holding the season’s first Kolkata Derby as Mohun Bagan have set the  Indian Football Association (IFA) an array of conditions ahead of the marquee clash of the Calcutta Football League (CFL). The match is slated to take place at the Kalyani Stadium on Wednesday.

Following a series of letters exchanged between Mohun Bagan and IFA regarding the venue Kalyani Stadium, the club is learnt to be irked by the state’s football governing body not meeting some of the pre-conditions.

In a letter to IFA on Monday, Bagan said none of their two demands — at least two days of practice at the venue before the match and a total of over 6000 tickets for their members — were met despite prior intimation.

IFA had initially promised 4000 tickets to both clubs. But after the state Public Works Department did not give the ano objection certificate’ to a temporary stand constructed at the stadium. The total number of tickets have come down to 7500, and each club can be given a maximum of 2000 each.

With just one day remaining before the tie, 48 hours of practice is not possible, but Bagan said it won’t be possible for them to participate if the ticket demand is not met.

“Our club will be under tremendous pressure if we are unable to keep our word as promised regarding the issuance of ticket to the bonafide members. We request you to kindly solve our problems and help us to play the match or else it will be impossible to participate in the ensuing derby match,” read the letter.

This was in reply to the governing body’s letter that it was for Bagan that the match was pencilled in at the Kalyani Stadium at the first place.

“As you are well aware as the second option, we wanted the match to be played in Kanchengunga Stadium but considering your objection to play the match over there, we decided to consider an alternative venue,” the letter continued.

“We also considered organising this match on your ground in the maidan but even after Kingfisher East Bengal Club accepted to play the match in the said venue, the police authorities did not approve the venue because of security reasons.”

“In such circumstances, as an alternative and after discussing with both the clubs, we decided to organise the match in Kalyani Stadium.”

By Debabrata Majumder                                                                

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club were held to a goalless draw by Peerless Sports Club in the CFL Premier Division – A here on Sunday.

The draw at Barasat Stadium has not done the Black Panthers any fovours. Mohammedan SC now have 16 points from 7 games and have fallen five points behind the leaders East Bengal.

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club looks to extend their winning streak in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A when they take on Peerless Sports Club on Sunday at Barasat Stadium.

The Black Panthers, who are currently on third place with 15 points from six games, will be eager to log their fifth straight win in the competition to keep pressure on the leaders East Bengal who are on 21 points.

“We are not looking at the league table right now. What we have to do is just keep winning,” said Mohammedan SC Head Coach Mridul Bannerjee.

Mohammedan SC, who registered four back-to-back wins in the CFL first time since 2008-09, have emerged as surprise title contenders but the task at hand will not be easy for the Black Panthers and the gaffer is expecting a tough game against Peerless, who played some spirited football over the course of the competition.

Peerless started their campaign with a goalless draw against Tollygunge Agragami. Then they went on to beat Aryan 3-0 before going down 0-2 against East Bengal. However, the Fuja Tope-led side bounced back to the winning ways with a 2-1 win over United Sports Club followed by consecutive draws against Mohun Bagan and Bhawanipore Club.

Facing Mohammedan SC, Fuja Tope will be relying heavily on the strike pair of Rahim Nabi and Ghanefo Kromah for goals upfront, while the likes of Argha Chakraborty, Sukhwinder Singh, Arijit Bagui and Irfan Khan will hold the key in midfield with Nigerian Eze Kingsley leading the defense line.

“Peerless SC will be a difficult team to beat as they are a very hardworking team. But if we play to our potential and convert our chances then we have a good chance to win,” Mridul Bannerjee added.

For the record, when last time these two teams meet in the CFL Premier Division three years back it was Mohammedan SC who came out victorious courtesy Ashim Biswas’ lone goal.

On the team news front, Mohammedan SC is likely to retain the same starting line-up tomorrow that beat Southern Samity midweek, while the newest foreign acquisition Alexandre Tabillon will start on the bench.

The game at Barasat Stadium kicks off at 5.30 pm on Sunday and it will be televised live on ETV News Bangla.

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan got back to winning ways with a comfortable 3-1 victory over United Sports Club on Friday in the CFL Premier Division – A.

Mohun Bagan drew the first blood through Daniel Bidemi (19th), only for Budhiram Tudu (23rd) to restore the parity for United SC. However, Darryl Duffy (36th) and Bidemi (57th) scored a goal each in the either halves to ensure full three points for their side at Mohun Bagan Ground.

Going into the game Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakraborty made only change to the team from the previous match as Prabir Das was unavalaible for suspenstion which saw Tapan Maity taking his place. While his counterpart Partha Sen named a unchanged side from the previous match against Bhawanipore FC.

Mohun Bagan, who started with Duffy and Bidemi upfront, began the game in attacking mode and created some half chances in the initial quarter of the game but finishing in the final third denied the Mariners an early lead.

The pressure paid off as Mohun Bagan finally broke the deadlock in the 19th minute when Bidemi capitalised on a defensive error to beat United SC custodian Sangram Mukhejee off a Darryl Duffy pass.

United SC retaliated almost immediately through Budhiram who slotted the equalizer against the run of play later from Suhair VP’s pass in the 23rd minute.

Thereafter, Mohun Bagan gradually gained control and regain the one goal advantage in the 35th minute when Duffy headed home from Tonmoy Ghosh’s left sided cross to give his team a 2-1 adavantage at half-time.

After the change of ends, Mohun Bagan put up an aggressive performance and Bidemi nearly finding the net in the 47th minute. But the Nigerian failed to keep his effort on target off a Tapan Maity corner.

However, Mohun Bagan did not had to wait long for the third as Bidemi coverted from Pankaj Moula’s pass to give his team a two goal cushion in the 56th minute.

Midway through the half United SC went agonisingly close through Bello Rasaq but the defender was denied by the woodwork.

As the game progressed, Mohun Bagan were all over the United SC citadel with a series of raids but they failed to get the ball in to the back of the net.

United SC, meanwhile, tried to push up looking for a goal in the later stages of the game, but Mohun Bagan held on for a well-deserved 3-1 win.

Following this victory Mohun Bagan move up to second place with 16 points from six matches while United SC remain on seventh with six points from seven matches.

Photo By Ujjal Sarkhel

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan will be keen to get their Calcutta Premier Division – A campaign back on track when they take on United Sports Club tomorrow at Mohun Bagan Ground.

Having started the season with a lot of promise, Mohun Bagan have lost the plot midway as they were held golless by Peerless SC and the recent controversy that occurred in their last game against Tollygunge Agragami over three dissallowed goals which saw the game abandoned on Monday, have affected team’s morale.

However, Mohun Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakraborty knows it very well that a win against United SC can prove to be crucial for his side at this critical juncture to rebuild confidence and come out of the recent slump phase, thus the gaffer strictly advised players to only concentrate on the task at hand.

“We are not thinking about thing which are beyond our control. What we can do is give our best and I have full faith in my team and they are fully capable of a comeback,” coach Sankarlal said.

Playing in front of home fans should be the morale booster for The Mariners, but the likes of  Darryl Duffy and Daniel Bidemi will have to pull up their socks or else Bagan could find themselves out of title contention.

“It is not that we are playing bad to drop points, but rather our boys are not able to capitalize on chances that came their way. I hope they won’t repeat the same mistakes  and put up a improved performance tomorrow,” Sankarlal added.

United SC, on the other hand, did not had ideal start as they lost four games back-to-back which led to their coach Subrata Bhattacharya’s premature resignation from the team. However, change in team management brought luck for The Purple Brigade as they recovered under new caoch Partha Sen with successive victories over George Telegraph and Bhawanipore.

Facing Mohun Bagan, United SC will rely on league’s top scorer Suhair V.P. and Eric Brown for goals upfront. Joining them will be the likes Budhiram Tudu, Sankar Oraon and Manotosh Chakladar who will hold the key in midfield while the experienced Bello Rasaq will lead the back-line with Sangram Mukherjee standing under the frame.

“United SC will be a tough opponent. They have a good blend of youth and experience but with all said and done we don’t have any other option except win and we are going all out to achieve that.”  Sankarlal concluded.

The game at Mohun Bagan Ground kicks off at 5.30 pm on Friday and it will be televised live on ETV News Bangla.

Photo and Report By Ajay Majumder

BARASAT: East Bengal managed to squeeze past George Telegraph SC by a solitary goal victory in their CFL Premier Division – A encounter at Barasat Stadium on Thursday.

The all-important goal came in the 74th minute through Do Dong Hyun, which ultimately turned out to be the match winner and helped East Bengal to consolidate their position at the top of the CFL standings with 21 points from seven games.

Going into the game East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan made three forced changes into the starting XI from the previous match as Gurwinder Singh, Prohlad Roy and Abinash Ruidas came into the side at the expense of Arnab Mondal, Mohammed Rafique and Bikash Jairu, who are on national duty.

The game started with a slow pace restricting the action to the midfield in the initial quarter of the game. However, East Bengal seemed more determined to wrap up the match in their favour and record their seventh successive win in the league.

As the game progressed, East Bengal gradually gained control and dominated the possession. George Telegraph, on the other hand, defended deep and had their keeper SK. Maidul Islam to thank after he denied Jiten Murmu, Ruidas and Dong on several occasions as both sides went into the breather locked scoreless.

Needing a goal, East Bengal began the second half  with added enthusiasm as they attacked by pushing high up, but Maidul once again came to his side’s rescue in the 58th minute when he saved Lalrindika Ralte’s long range effort.

The young keeper was well complemented by midfielder John Apmong as the Ghanaian single handedly blocked some of brilliants movements of the rival team.

East Bengal, thereafter, pressed hard looking for the opener. East Bengal’s effort finally paid off when Dong broke the deadlock in the 74th minute.

Skipper Robert Lalthlamuana combined with Lalrindika to deliver a cross inside the George Telegraph box and the later laid it for Dong, who sollted past Maidul to put his team ahead.

Having taken the lead, The Red and Golds got a much needed confidence boost and they increased their pressure up front dominating the game entirely. Despite creating numerous scoring opportunities in the final quarter, once again it was lack of finishing that prevented a bigger scoreline as the game ended 1-0 in East Bengal’s favour.

East Bengal XI: Dibyendu Sarkar (GK), Rahul Bheke, Gurwinder Singh, Callum Angus, Robert Lalthalmuana (c), Prohlad Roy (Samad Ali Mallick – 60′), Mehtab Hossein, Lalrindika Ralte, Abinash Ruidas (Nikhil Poojary – 85′), Dong Hyun Do (Somide Adelaja – 93′), Jiten Murmu.

By Ujjal Sarkhel

Barasat: Mohammedan Sporting Club defeated Southern Samity 2-1 in their Calcutta Football League Premier A  clash on Wednesday at the Barasat Vidyasagar Kriangan.

Mohammedan Sporting took the lead in 69^th minute through Usman Ashique, only for Basanta Singh to restore parity for Southern Samity in 72th minute from a spot kick. But once again Black Panthers srtuck through their substitute Dipendu Biswas  on 95^th minute to console the full three for his side in this important CFL fixture.

After the 2008-2009 season Mohammedan Sporting registered 4 back to back CFL match win.

Going in to this match Mohammedan Coach Mridul Bannerjee made one change in the starting line up. Midfielder Usman Ashique come in starting line up as a replacement of Atinder Mani. On the other hand Southern Samity remained the same starting line up which played in their previous match against East Bengal.

Black Panthers are dominated the game from opening minutes, kepping their possession in midfield ,they placed a lots of attack in Southern Samity box. But the final ball was lacking every time for the panthers. On 34^th minute Southern Samity got a chance where Basanta Singh’s brilliant right footed shot was well saved by the custodian Sayan Roy. Meanwhile after few minutes Mohammedan Sporting’s Dodoz tried same and Southern Custodian Sourav did the same of Sayan Roy. Both team tried hard to break the deadlock but both team looses the ball control in the penetrative zone. Mohammedan striker Dodoz was man marked by the Southern Stopper Echezona and on the other hand Mohammedan stopper Lancine Toure  did well job in defense by marking the Liberian striker of Southern Tarrus. The first half ended with goal less.

Mohammedan Sporting kept on pressing in the second half in search of the all important goal. But every time the final ball was lacking. The same thing was happned for Southern side also. In second half Southern midfielder Antoni Soren was looking more dangerous with his brilliant speedy move.

Finally the deadlock was Brocken on 69^th minute through the Mohammedan player Ushman Ashique. Manvir Singh delivered a through pass into the Southern box where Ushman puts the ball into the net and scored his first goal in his debut. But Southern Samity found the equalizer just after three minute from a penalty. Ushman fouled a Southern player in their penalty box. Referee Ranjit did no mistake to give that penalty. Basanta Singh scored from this spot kick and leveled the game.

Thereafter both team tired hard to found the insurance goal. Mohammedan coach Mridul Bannerjee made three changes. Ushman Ashique,  Manvir Singh and Dipendu Dowary was replaced by Parvinder Singh, Atinder Mani and Dipendu Biswas.

When everyone is thinking that the match will end as a draw , substituted veteran  Dipendu Biswas come as savior for the black panthers by scoring his 249^th goal of his carrier on 95^th minuted of the game.As a result of that the game ended with the win of Mohammedan’s side.

After this thrilling win Mohammedan Sporting are in the  second position of league table. Black Panthers will face Peerless SC in their next game at the same venue.

Photo By: Debabrata Majumder

By Ujjal Sarkhel

Kolkata: East Bengal football club will be aiming to continue their unbeaten streak in ongoing CFL 2016 premiere A when they play their 7^th match against George Telegraph at the Barasat Vidyasagar Kriangan on Thursday.

East Bengal are coming into this game fresh off a 2-1 win over Southern Samity while George Telegraph suffered a 5-1 loss in their last game against United Sports Club.

Red and Golds are currently in top position with 18 points in 6 games, will look to continue their unbeaten run and cement the top position in this league. Against George Telegraph the red and gold are expected to retain the same starting XI of last match. Dong Hyun and Jiten will start as a upfront player. Mehatab Hussain, Lalrandika Ralte, Md Rafique and Avinash Rui Das would form the spine of the team.Skipper Arnab Mandal will continue to helm the defensive duties beside Calum Angas with Samad Ali and Robert as the full backs and Lui Barreto as custodian.

“Every match is important for us in this league. My boys are playing well. I told them to go match by match. I am confident to win this crucial match and I belive that my boys will give 100% to fulfil that” coach Morgan told to the reporters.

Though East Bengal won 6 consecutive matches , the defense conceded goal in every matches, which has worried enough their coach Morgan. The British stopper Calam Angus  still could not do justice to its name.

On the other hand George Telegraph are one of the weakest team in this season. They earned only one point in 5 games and currently at the bottom of the league table fighting with the relegation. Yet they will try to give a life-threatening bite to East Bengal to earn some point. Their two foreign strikers BAYI KAMO STEPHANE ,Babatunde Ayomide Badmus  will become the key factor in this game.

So it will become an exciting one that how the league leaders will play against this weakest opponent.

The game at Barasat Stadium kicks off at 5.30 pm on Wednesday and it will be televised on ETV News Bangla.

By Debabrata Majumder

KOLKATA:Mohammedan Sporting Club will look to grab their fourth successive win in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A  when take on Southern Samity tomorrow at Barasat Stadium.

The match against Southern Samity is very crucial for the Black Panthers as they are 6 points below the leaders East Bengal and one behind second placed Mohun Bagan, on third with 12 points. Thus a win on the morrow would take them to second making the three headed race at the top tighter.

Mohammedan SC, who played their last game on August 20 against Aryan Club, are coming into game on the back of three back-to-back wins. However the task at hand won’t be easy for the Black Panthers as gaffer Mridul Bannerjee has admitted that Southern Samity could prove to be the toughest opponent that his team have faced so far in the competition.

“We did win three games back-to-back but whatever we have done in the past will count for very little when we play our next game. Each game is a new challenge and needs different approach,” coach Bannerjee said ahead of the clash.

Facing Southern Samity, Mohammedan SC will be boosted by the arrival of  attacking medio Alexandre Tabillon, along with the Frenchman experienced striker Dipendu Biswas will also be available for selection.

On the other hand, Southern Samity’s campaign has been a roller coaster ride so far. The Subarata Bhattacharya Jr. coached side started with a goalless draw against Bhawanipore Club, then they went on to beat United SC 2-0 before going down 0-1 to Mohun Bagan. However, they bounced back to the winning ways against Army XI but again suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat from East Bengal in their last game.<

Going into the game, Southrn Samity will rely on their Liberian striker Taurus Manneh and Ashim Biswas for goals up front while the likes of Antoni Soren, Deepak Mondal, Basanta Singh, Goutam Kujur and Safar Sardar will add depth to the side.

“Southern Samity is one of the toughest teams in the league. They have a well-balanced side and it always gets difficult when we are stacked up against a set of proven players. But I have full faith in our young team and they have stood up whenever needed. We will try our best for a positive result tomorrow,” coach Bannerjee added.

Interestingly the current Southern Samity coach was in charge of Mohammedan SC during the 2015/16 I-League 2^nd Division few months back and Southern Samity have as many five players in their side who plied their trade in Mohammedan SC previous season.

For the record, Mohammedan SC have not won against Southern Samity in their previous two meetings of the CFL Premier Division, hence The Black Panthers hoping for it’s third time lucky.

The game at Barasat Stadium kicks off at 5.30 pm on Wednesday and it will be televised on ETV News Bangla.

By Ajay Majumder

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan will look to return to winning ways when they take on Tollygunge Agragami in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A at Mohun Bagan Ground on Monday.

The Mariners are going into the game on the back of a goalless draw against Peerless SC last week while Tollygunge have endured back-to-back defeats in their last two fixtures. So it’s quite obvious that both sides will be looking for nothing but three points heading into the business end of the league.

Speaking ahead of the match, Mohun Bagan Coach Sankarlal Chakraborty said, “The last game against Peerless was a tough one. We had our chances but at the end it was our mistakes that proved costly, but there is still a long way to go and we are focussed on the task at hand.”

On the team news front, The Bagan coach is expected to shuffle his starting line-up as Tonmoy Ghosh could return into the starting XI while Daniel Bidemi is expected to pair Darryl Duffy upfront.

Tollygunge, on the other hand, stated their campaign with a lot of promise and even pulled off the first upset of the season when they beat a strong Mohammedan Sporting Club 2-1. But since then their performance level dipped as they suffered concecutive defaets in next two games against Aryan Club and East Bengal.

Facing Mohun Bagan, Tollygunge coach Ranjan Chowdhury will be relying on Nigerian striker Joel Sunday for goals upfront. Joining him will be the likes of Surabuddin Mallick, Phoolchand Hembrom and Reisangmei Vashum who would play a crucial role in the midfield while the experienced Kareem Omolaja Nurain will lead the back-line.

“The game against Tollygunge will not be a easy one. They have a very good squad with three veary good foreigners. But we have worked hard during the past week and are ready for the challenge.” coach Sankarlal added.

For the record, last time when these two teams faced off in the CFL Premier Division – A previous year, Tollygunge walked away with full three points despite losing the match 1-3 as Mohun Bagan played the last four minutes of the game without a U-23 player on the pitch violating the rules of the league.

By Debabrata Majumder

KOLKATA: East Bengal extended their unbeaten run in the CFL Premier Division – A as they defeated Southern Samity 2-1 at Barasat Stadium on Saturday.

Jiten Murmu (35th) and Do Dong Hyun (45th) scored in the first-half for East Bengal after Southern Samity took the early lead through Basanta Singh (7th).

Going into the game East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan made four changes to the playing XI from the previous match by handing starts to Rahul Bheke, Robert Lalthlamuana, Bikash Jairu and Do Dong replacing Samad Ali Mallick, Narayan Das, Avinash Ruidas and Somide Adelaja.

Southern Samity started off well and stunned their opponents with a 7th minute strike from winger Singh. Liberian striker Taurus Manneh sent in a delightful cross from the left side for Singh, who capitalized on a East Bengal defensive lapse, and made no mistake to head the opener.

Having conceded early on, East Bengal began attacking with intensity through Do Dong, Lalrindika Ralte and Mohammad Rafique but rivals Southern Samity managed to hold on defending deep.

However Southern Samity’s resistance was finally broken in the 35th minute when Jiten headed the equaliser off an Mehtab Hossain flag-kick.

Thereafter East Bengal increased their pressure up front and dominated the game entirely. East Bengal’s pressure yielded another goal at the stroke of half-time when Do Dong put his team into the lead. East Bengal were awarded a penalty when Southern Samity’s Nagen Tamang handled Jairu’s goalbound shot inside the box and the Korean slotted from the spot to give his team a 2-1 lead.

In the second half both sides battled hard in the midfield. While East Bengal had the better chances to go further up, Southern Samity also had their chances to equalise.

Midway through the half, East Bengal went agonisingly close through Rafique, whose effort was blocked by the rival keeper Sourav Chakraborty.

Southern Samity’s responded through substitute Rooney Eva around the 70th minute mark. However the Cameroonian striker failed to keep his effort on target from an hand shaking distance.

In the remainder of the game, Southern Samity battled hard looking for the equaliser, but East Bengal managed to hold on with some solid defending as the game ended 2-1.

The result saw East Bengal continued to top the table with 18 points from six matches while Southern Samity remain on fifth with 7 points.

East Bengal XI – Luis Barreto (GK), Rahul Bheke, Arnab Mondal, Calum Angus, Robert Lalthalmuana (c) (Deepak-68′), Mohammed Rafique, Mehtab Hossein, Lalrindika Ralte, Bikash Jairu (Abinash Ruidas- 78′), Dong Hyun Do (Somide Adelaja – 68′), Jiten Murmu.

Southern Samity XI – Sourav Chakravarty (GK), Suman Hazra, Deepak Mondal (c), Celestine Echezona, Safar Sardar, Nagen Tamang, Anthony Soren, Gautam Kujur, Snehasis Chakravarty (Ashim Biswas – 51′), M Basanta Singh, Taurus (Rooney Eva-78′).

Photo By Santanu Biswas.

By Ujjal Sarkhel

Kolkata: East Bengal will look to grab their six successive win in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A  when take on Southern Samity tomorrow at Barasat Stadium.

The Red and Gold are coming into this game fresh off a 1-0 win over Tollygaunge Agragami while Southern Samity also beat Army XI in their last game.

East Bengal are currently at top position with 15 point from 5 games, will look to cement their top position in this league. However the task is not easy for the red and gold side as gaffer Trevor Morgan has admitted that Southern Samity will be the toughest opponent that his team have faced so far in the season.

“We did win five games back-to-back but whatever we have done in the past will count for very little when we play our next game. Each game is a new challenge and needs different approach and my boys are trying hard to fulfil that,”  coach Morgan said on the eve of the clash.

Against Southern Samity, the red and gold are expected to retain the same starting XI from last two games. Though their upfront players Adileja and Jiten are not in score sheet in every game but once again Morgan will relying on them. Mehatab Hussain, Lalrandika Ralte, Md Rafique and Avinash Rui Das would form the spine of the team.

Skipper Arnab Mandal will continue to helm the defensive duties beside Calum Angas with Samad Ali and Narayan Das as the full backs and Lui Barreto as custodian.

Southern Samity, on the other hand, started their campaign with a goalless draw against Bhawanipore Club. Then they went on to beat United Sports Club 2-0 before going down 0-1 to Mohun Bagan. However, the Subarata Bhattacharya Jr. coached side bounced back to the winning ways against Army XI and have 7 points from 4 games.

Going into the game Southrn Samity will rely on the Liberian striker Taurus Manneh and Ashim Biswas for goals up front while the likes of Antoni Soren, Deepak Mondal, Basanta Singh, Goutam Kujur and Safar Sardar will add depth to the side.

“Southern Samity is one of the toughest teams in the league. They have a well-balanced side and it always gets difficult when we are stacked up against a set of proven players. But I have full faith in my boys We will try our best for a positive result tomorrow,” coach Morgan added.

Going into this match both side will have a strong motive for win. It will be an exciting encounter that how the league leaders will cross this strong hurdle to maintain their top spot.

The game at Barasat Stadium kicks off at 5.30 pm on Saturday and it will be televised on ETV News Bangla.

File Image

Barasat, 25^th Aug.16: United Sports Club thrashed George Telegraph 5-1 in an exciting match of CFL 2016 thanks to a hat-trick by VP Suhair and a brace from Eric P. Brown on Thursday at Barasat Stadium.

United SC started off very well in the match with total dominance. They started attacking one after another from the very beginning. They broke the deadlock on the 8^th minute as Eric scored from inside the box. The lead was doubled on the 33^rd minute when Budhiram Tudu’s cross met Suhair who slotted the ball into the back of the net with sheer clam and composure. Just a couple of minutes later, George pulled a goal back, but just before half-time United restored the two-goal lead thanks to an excellent effort from their Liberian striker Eric who single handedly scored having dribbled past at least four George defenders inside the box.

In the second-half, George tried to come back as they put pressure on United defense, Lakra and Sujay led their defense with utmost bravery. United got the fourth goal against the run of play when Suhair was put on an one on one situation with the George goalkeeper and the striker calmly sent the ball past the onrushing custodian. The fifth goal came just before the final whistle as Suhair completed his hat-trick.

United coach Partha Sen in his post-match interview says that he is happy with the way his players played and hoped that the team will carry the spirit on to the coming matches. He also added that his side had played well against East Bengal as well, but the luck was not on his side that day.With this victory, United got their first point of the season and currently they are on 3 points having played 5 matches.

By Debabrata Majumder

KOLKATA: Man of the Match Sankar Roy’s fine performance under the bar helped Peerless Sports Club hold Mohun Bagan to a barren draw in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A at Mohun Bagan Ground on Monday.

Mohun Bagan had some good opportunities throughout the game but thanks to goalkeeper Sankar’s heroics at the post, Peerless managed to snatch a point from a much stronger opponent.

Going into the game, Mohun Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakraborty made only change to the starting lineup by handing defender Deepak Devrani his first start of the season replacing Tonmoy Ghosh.

In a game of equal exchanges, both sides created chances throughout the game but fell short of converting them in the final third.

The first half was fought evenly with neither team’s defense giving away the ball. Mohun Bagan, got off to a good start and had the first chance to go ahead, but Azharuddin Mallick’s shot lacked power.

Peerless too made inroads into the rival box with striker Ghanefo Kromah, who was a constant threat for the rival defense, had a couple of clear chances.

Kromah worked with perfect understanding with Rahim Nabi and the duo troubled the rival defence often but Mohun Bagan keeper Arnab Das Sarma was up to the task, produced some brilliant saves to deny Peerless as the first half ended scoreless.

After the change of ends, Mohun Bagan put up an aggressive performance with striker Darryl Duffy nearly finding the net in the 51st minute. But the Scot failed to keep his effort on target off a Tapan Maity corner.

Peerless retaliated almost immediately through Argha Chakraborty but the midfielder failed to direct it towards the goal.

Needing goal, Mohun Bagan threw new recruit Daniel Bidemi into the action. The Nigerian combined well with Duffy to create some half chances but were unable to break down the Peerless defense led by Eze Kingsley.

Around the 75th minute mark Mohun Bagan had another close chance thorugh Prabir Das who attempted a long range shot but Peerless narrowly escaped after a fine save mnade by Sankar.

The young shot-stopper produced some decent saves in the final quarter of the game to ensure a point for his team.

As result of this dissapointing performance Mohun Bagan stayed on second with 13 points from 5 games while Peerless are at fourth on 8 points from as many games.

Photo By Ujjal Sarkhel.

By Debabrata Majumder

KOLKATA: East Bengal overcame Tollygunge Agragami 1-0 to register their fifth consecutive victory in the ongoing CFL Premier Division – A at Barasat Stadium on Sunday.

The all impotant goal came in the 73rd minute through defender Calum Angus which sellted the evenly contested fixture in East Bengal’s favour.

Heading into the tie, East Bengal gaffer Trevor Morgan made three changes from the side that edge United SC 4-3 last week. Luis Barreto replaced Dibyendu Sarkar under the bar while Samad Ali Mallick and Mehtab Hossain came at the expense of Gurwinder Singh and Nikhil Poojary.

Tollygunge started the match with a lot of intensity compared to their stronger opponents. Tollygunge had the first chance to take the lead in the 10th minute when striker Alfred Jaryan attempted a long range shot which was denied by the crossbar.

Around the 15th minute mark defender Kareem Omolaja Nurain tried his luck from a free-kick but the Nigerian directed his effort off the target.

Meanwhile, East Bengal also created some good moves in patches. The strike pair of Somide Adelaja and Jiten Murmu made some attempts on Tollygunge goal but never really get a grip on proceedings as their moves fizzled once they reach near the rival box.

East Bengal had the only scoring opportunity of the first-half through midfielder Mohammad Rafique whose attempted long-ranger missed the target by a few inches in the 35th minute.

Thereafter, both sides engaged in an end-to-end battle but could not break the deadlock as the first session ended scoreless.

East Bengal looked better in the second half, when the Korean forward Do Dong Hyun entered the field in the 58th minute replacing Adelaja.

Following Dong’s introduction the East Bengal the forward line moved with much cohesion. Tollygunge, on the other hand, looked to keep compact and hit their rivals on the counter attack.

Having created a handful of half chances, East Bengal almost got the breakthrough in the 65th minute but defender Arnab Mondal failed to keep his header on traget off a Mehtab Hossain corner.

The constant attacks from East Bengal bore fruit in the 73rd minute, when Mehtab sent in a inch perfect cross from a right sided corner and Angus made no mistake to head home the opener.

Soon after conceding, Tollygunge coach Ranjan Chowdhury brought in striker Joel Sunday in place of Kareem to give more thrust in the attack. But the East Bengal defense did well to held on their narrow adavantage.

After this win East Bengal moved up to the summit of the CFL satndings with 15 points from 5 games while Tollygunge Agragami remain at sixth with 7 points from as many games.

East Bengal XI: Luis Barreto (GK), Samad Ali Mallick, Calum Angus, Arnab Mondal, Narayan Das, Abinash Ruidas (Prohlad Roy – 59′), Mehtab Hossain, Lalrindika Ralte (Bikash Jairu – 88′), Somide Adelaja (Dong Hyun Do – 58′), Jiten Murmu.

Tollygunge Agragami XI: Kunzang Bhutia (GK), Phoolchand Hembram, Kareem Omolaja Nurain (Joel Sunday – 75′), Gurtej Singh, Shanku Guha, Surabuddin Mallick, Santosh Oraon (Karan Atwal – 74′), Rakesh Masih, Palsang Lama, Raja Das, Alfred Jayran.