Category: News

by Abhishek Shukla

Durand cup: DSK Shivajians FC face-off against Neroca FC for a place in final

8th September 2016 – Delhi, India – Debutants DSK Shivajians FC will hope to continue their historic run when they face-off against Neroca  FC in the semifinals of the 128th Durand Cup at the Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi, on Friday.

 The youthful DSK Shivajians ensured their place in the last-four with a 2-1 victory over Army Green in a must-win game and will hope to build on the momentum against Group-B runners-up Neroca FC when they return to familiar surrounds.

 For the record, DSK Shivajians played four consecutive games at the venue, which included two wins, a draw and loss, before beating the defence side in the last game at the Harbaksh Stadium to top Group-A with 10 points.

 On the other hand, the Manipur side is no pushover and made it to the knockout stage with the distinction of being the only team to boast of an unbeaten record in this edition of the competition.

 Talking about the challenge Neroca FC would possess for DSK Shivajians’, First Team Manager Dave Rogers said: “Neroca are a very hard working team with a good blend of youth and experience. On their day, they are more than capable of beating any team. So, we know that if we are to progress, then we will have to be at our best to overcome the fierce challenge of NEROCA.”

 Friday’s semi-final clash will be the first time the two teams play each other. Both the teams are expected to start with their strongest eleven to have a better chance of making it to the final of Asia’s oldest football tournament.

 Going into the match, after a three-day break following a hectic weekend, where DSK Shivajians played thrice in four days the team will be fresh for the battle ahead.

 Moreover, the team now has a full 20-member squad at their disposal to choose the final playing eleven. Delighted with the fact, Dave Rogers added: “It is exciting and challenging for me to be now in a position to select a starting eleven from a full squad of players who are not only eager and excited to play but are also in this together to achieve the same goals.”

 Captain Juan Quero, club’s joint top-scorer along with Rohit Kumar, has scored four goals and will be looking to add to that tally inFriday’s match. Meanwhile, the Pune-based team will also look to build upon their impressive defensive display against Army Green with Mohd. Sajid Dhot now back from a one-match suspension.

 The match will kick-off at 4 pm and will be covered LIVE on www.twitter.com/dskshivajians

by Abhishek Shukla

Sporting down Churchill 2-0 in U-20 TACA Goa

Goa: Sporting opened their U-20 TACA Goa campaign with a comfortable 2 – 0 win against Churchill Bros at Duler Stadium, Mapusa on Thursday. Daryl Costa (73’) & Harshad Naik (88’ P) got on the score-sheet for the young Flaming Oranje.

Sporting choose a 4-4-2 formation with Daryal Costa and Perryson Fernandes in the front. Churchill were the first to get some goal mouth action in the 13th minute when Leander D’Cunha and Sandeep Subba got back to back  shots which were judged well by the Sporting keeper Sherwin Da Cunha. For the larger part of first half both teams restricted the play in the mid field. It was in the final quarter Sporting exploited the gaps in Churchill defense and intensified their attack. Harshad Naik and Daryal Costa combined well to create some good moves. Sporting’s first real opportunity came late in the 38th minute when they won a free kick and missed our marginally. Following this Daryl Costa made a good run on the right to set up Perryson but the latter failed to capitalize. In the 42nd minute Harshad made a brilliant run taking on two defenders but placed the shot straight to keeper. The game stayed goalless at the break.

The second half started on a cautious note and lacked any real action until the 58th minute when Leander of Churchill received his marching orders for his second bookable offense. With the one man advantage Sporting went full throttle trying to find the opening goal. In the 63 minute Sporting’s Shawn Noronha almost headed one in when he latched on to a well directed corner from the left, but the ball went out brushing the post. Soon in the 65th minute Daryl served a ball on the platter for Snedden Fernandes who shot straight into the keepers hands. The decisive goal finally came in the 73rd minute when Aliston Camotio gave a promising pass to Daryl who was having an exceptional day on the field; the latter rushed forward beating the offside trap and chipped the keeper to score a wonderful goal putting Sporting in the drivers’ seat. In less than 5 minutes Aliston once again sent in a lethal pass but failed to find an Orange shirt at the end of it. Towards the final minutes Churchill defender Joel Fernandes got down Snedden in the box, the resulting penalty was calmly converted by Harshad putting end to any fightback by Churchill and ensuring the full 3 points for Sporting. Speaking about the victory Sporting coach Savio Vaz said “The first match is always important, this win will definitely be a good motivation for the boys and am sure they will keep improving in the upcoming matches.”

by Abhishek Shukla

Malki Sports Club and Shillong Lajong FC played an exciting 1-1 draw

Shillong 8 th September: Malki Sports Club and Shillong Lajong FC played an exciting 1-1 draw in a Gionee Shillong Premier League match today at the JN Stadium Shillong.

Malki started the match brightly and had a free kick in the 3 rd minute of the game, but their player’s shot lacked quality as it was easily collected by Lajong custodian Neithovilie.

However, they continued to pressed hard in search of the lead and finally did so when their player, Shylla scored the goal in the 18 th minutes of the match Lajong youngsters started to find their rhythm in the game and had many chances coming their way in front of goal. In the 21 st minute, Samuela Lalmuanpuia’s shot hit the bar which fell on the rebound and he later tried to head the ball into the net but it went over the bar instead.

In the 30 th minute, after a good run by Samuela, passed the ball to Hardy and the latter’s shot was parried away by the keeper to go for a corner. After five minutes of the match, it was Malki’s turn to find some good chances at goal but missed the target as their striker only managed to hit the bar.

Then Lajong pressed forward again for the equaliser. Isaac Vanmalsawma crossed the ball to find Joseph who tried to head the ball into the net but it went wide. The fourth official then gave two minutes of added time and it was during this period when Bipin Singh’s cross found Hardy Cliff Nongbri who made no mistake and headed the ball in the 45+2 minute.

In the second session of the match, Lajong started to add more pressure on the Malki defenders and were troubling them on many occasions. The Reds had many chances in this half but were not able to convent those chances into goals. Overall, it was an interesting encounter between these two teams who fought hard till the end of the final whistle. They had to settle for one point each. With the end of the match, Shillong Lajong FC are on 11 points from 5 games while Malki is on first place with 13 points from 6 macthes.

Lajong will play their next match against Langsning FC on the 12 th September.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohammedan SC’s title hopes ends after a 2-2 draw against United SC

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

by Abhishek Shukla

Match Preview: Malki Sports Club vs Shillong Lajong FC

Shillong 7 th September: Malki Sports Club and Shillong Lajong FC will face off each other on Thursday in the Gionee Shillong Premier League encounter at the JN Stadium at 3:30PM.

Lajong youngsters are coming into this match after a 3-0 win over Nongkrem Sports Club. Samuela, Hardy Nongbri and Jacob Lalrawngbawla, provided the goals for the team.

The Reds have won three and drew one and have collected 10 points from four games. Unfortunately, due to injury, Bipin Singh and Milan Basumatary will remain absent from the squad.

Shillong Lajong FC Head Coach Thangboi Singto said, “Malki is one of the strongest team in the Gionee SPL. Good thing is we also have been strong and have stayed unbeaten. We just need to keep momentum and play the way we have been playing. We have worked on improving our strengths and taking advantage from the chances we create to get more goals. It will be a test of fitness, strength and character. Our boys are ready for the match”, he said.

Meanwhile, Malki Sports Club is heading into this game after a 3-0 win over Rangdajied United FC. So far, Malki have won three games and lost once and are on 9 points. The last time these two teams played each other in a Shillong Premier League match was on 6 th November 2015. Lajong won the match 3-1.

Lajong youngsters are the only team in the Gionee SPL to remain undefeated. They will look to maintain this record when they take on Malki on Thursday. A tough encounter awaits the football lovers of Shillong as Malki and Lajong will fight hard to collect all three points and be at the top of the Gionee SPL table.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohun Bagan gave walkover to East Bengal

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 Abhishek Shukla

DSK Shivajians FC appoint John Andrews as Strength and Conditioning Coach

DSK Press Release

7th September 2016 – Pune, India – DSK Shivajians Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of John Andrews as the new Strength and Conditioning Coach for the first team.

John is a UEFA ‘A’ License Coach, who has expertise in strength and conditioning, joins First Team Manager Dave Rogers backroom staff for the season ahead.

Andrews, 37, was a professional footballer before he retired and ventured into coaching. He coached HvitiRiddarinn and Afturelding Women’s Team in the past. Following the latter, he diverted his focus on to strength and conditioning of players, developing FRP Fitness for regular people.

Talking about John’s appointment, Dave, said: “I have known John for many years throughout my football career. We played against each other many times. He has always been a man of integrity and complete professionalism in the way he conducts himself. I decided to bring in John because his knowledge and attention to detail in Strength & Conditioning which is second to none.”

John is also an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer with a Degree in Physical Education and Health. His football career spanned over 16 years, where he played for the likes of Grantham Town, Mansfield Town, and Coventry City. John also played for Cork City in Ireland back in 2002. He ended his football career in the first division of Iceland with Afturelding.

Expressing his excitement on joining DSK Shivajians, John said: “It is an honour and a pleasure to be on board the most exciting and developing club in India. My goal here is to improve the strength, well-being, and overall health of the players and to push DSK Shivajians to the next level of our football journey. Thank you for the opportunity, and I look forward to doing my best for such a fantastic club and manager.”

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohammedan SC face United Sports in a crucial tie

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 Abhishek Shukla

Durand Cup: Sporting demolish Minerva; keeps semifinal hopes alive

SCG Press release

New Delhi: Sporting Clube de Goa put up a brilliant performance to stay alive in the Durnad Cup 2016 as they thrashed Minerva Academy 5 – 0 in their last group stage match here at Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi. Glan Martins (14’) opened the score board for Sporting while Cajetan Fernandes (19’), George D’Souza (73’), Alber Gonsalves (90’+3) and Marcus Mascarenhas (90’+6) got on the score sheet for the Goan side.

Sporting Clube de Goa produced yet another clinical first half performance with some quick attacking football. Gaffer Mateus Costa made two changes to the previous side that beat Gangtok, Alber Gonsalves came in place of Victorino Fernandes while George D’Souza came in place of Ponif Vaz who was down with fever. Costa adopted the 4-2-3-1 formation with Marcus Mascarenhas leading the attack. Sporting started off well as Ganesh Thakur and Marcus made some good moves early in the match. The show stopper was Glan Martins 14th minute thunderbolt from about 22 yards off. Alber Gonsalves sighted Martins with some room to shoot and send in a low cross towards him. Glan Martins charged forward and struck it perfectly to land it in the top right corner of the nets. Soon in the 19th minute Cajetan Fernandes doubled the lead with a brilliant free kick from the edge of the box placing it well at the corner giving the Minerva keeper no chance to react. After this Minerva tried getting back in the game as Manandeep Singh and Jaison Vales created some good moves among themselves but failed to break down the Sporting defense. The Sporting keeper Ravi Kumar had an exceptional day in between the sticks. The score stayed 2 – 0 at the half time.

The second half saw both sides going for the goal right from the kick off. Minerva players gave in their best but couldn’t get past the experienced back four of Sporting. In the 73rd minute Sporting won a free kick close to the centre line, George D’Souza who took an aim at the goal and managed to beat the keeper making it 3 – 0 in favour of Sporting. Minerva forward Manandeep Singh tried hard but couldn’t produce the match changing performance. Sporting added two more in the injury time when Alber managed to head in a George free kick while Quan Gomes set up Marcus with a brilliant cross making it 5 – 0 in favour of Sporting. With this win Sporting climb to 2ndposition in Group A with 7 points and a healthy goal difference of +7 but will have to wait for a favourable result (i.e. Draw) of the match between Army Green & Gangtok Himalayan which will be held on 7th Sept (Wednesday) to confirm their semi-final breath.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohun Bagan decides not to play the Kolkata derby

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.

by Abhishek Shukla

FIFA Youth Coaching Course starts in Kolkata.

NEW DELHI: All India Football Federation conducts another FIFA Youth Coaching Course in Kolkata, it kicked off yesterday (5th September 2016) at the Howrah Stadium, in Kolkata and it’ll continue until 9th September 2016.

Mr. Frederick Roy Millar, a veteran person from the UK, is the course instructor and Mr. Goutam Ghosh is serving as the coordinator of this course.

Twenty-two participants are taking part in the 5-day course. They are as follows:
Hardeep Singh, Lalita Saini, Gurpreet Singh, Pushpender Kundu, Tarun Shetty, Nikhil Khunteta, Mohammad Sabir, Ankush Kumar, Touqeer Ahmed, Amit Kumar Jaiswal, Chandan Balbir Rathod, Shiva Kumar Nagaraju, Murthy Manjunath, Nilava Chakraborty, Abhijit Mondal, Sarthak Dubey, Paresh Vijay Shivalkar, Mahesh Vijay Jagtap, Sayed Zuhair Hassan Rizvi, Shrungar Tarak Raul, Nikhil Paramjit Sharma and Mammen Cheruvathoor Simon.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: FC Goa signs of three new Brazilian players in Rafael Dumas, Trindade Goncalves & Richarlyson

 

Panaji,6th September: FC Goa has announced the signing of three new Brazilian players for the first team squad ahead of the third edition of the Hero Indian Super League. Defender Rafael Dumas and midfielders Richarlyson and Trindade Goncalves have penned a deal that will see them represent Zico’s men this season.

21 year old defender Rafael Dumas has been loaned from Brazilian side Flamengo where he plays as a center half. Speed is his forte and he uses this to his advantage to chase and close down attackers.

Having played in the junior side of the famed Brazilian team and helping the side win the Junior Campeonato Carioca in 2015, he was promoted to the senior team where he has made one appearance so far. Impressed by his performances in the junior league, Zico gave him the opportunity to join the Indian side to showcase his skills. Alongside veterans like Gregory Arnolin, World Cup winner Lucio and Luciano Sobrosa, the youngster will hope to leave his mark on the tournament.

Trindade Goncalves has played a number of junior tournaments in Brazil as well. The 20 year old played in the Copa Sao Paulo de Futbol Junior against rivals Corinthians and scored a goal while also converting a penalty in the shootout to win the contest. A defensive midfielder by trade, Trindade is adept at shielding the defensive from attacks using his speed and technique.

Richarlyson is the most decorated of the three players. Having represented the national team on two occasions, he has also won numerous domestic titles including the Brazilian league in 2006, 2007 and 2008 with Sao Paulo. The 33 year old is a versatile player and while he plays predominantly in front of the defence, he can also slot in comfortably in the heart of the defence or at left full back. With experience on his side, he will be an asset to Zico’s team during the ISL and will help the progression of the younger Brazilians and Indian players as well.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Mumbai City FC re-sign Sunil Chhetri

MUMBAI: Sunil Chhetri re-signed for Mumbai City FC on Monday for the upcoming third edition of the Indian Super League.

With seven goals Sunil was the top scorer for Mumbai City FC last season and is in fine form at present as his recent showing in the international friendly against Puerto Rico proved last week.

“Mumbai, first of all thank you lots for all the love and support that we received against Puerto Rico. I’m pretty happy to announce that in this upcoming season of Hero ISL 2016, I’ll be donning the Mumbai City FC jersey again. I’m really excited and looking forward to it,” Sunil said after re-signing.

India’s all-time top-scorer, who missed the inaugural season of the ISL, became the most expensive Indian player of the league when he was bought by the Ranbir Kapoor co-owned side in the player auction last year for a whopping Rs 1.2 crore.

Despite his team’s poor show in the ISL 2015, Sunil finished the fourth highest goalscorer and also became the first Indian to score a hat-trick last season when he netted thrice against NorthEast United FC.

by Abhishek Shukla

Kolkata Derby fate uncertain as Mohun Bagan denies to acquiesce

 

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 Abhishek Shukla

Durand Cup: DSK Shivajians FC enter historic semi-finals, down Army Green to top group

 

5th September 2016 – Delhi, India – DSK Shivajians FC achieved the mission they set out with by registering a 2-1 win over Army Green and book a historic semi-final berth in the 128th Durand Cup at the Harbaksh Stadium, on Monday.

Two penalty kick conversions by Spanish winger and skipper Juan Quero (6th and 9th minutes) proved decisive, but not before clinical second half defending that led to DSK Shivajians emerging victorious. Army Green could only pull one back via Herojit Singh (36th minute).

The result helped first-timers DSK Shivajians finish their five-match Group A engagements with 10 points in their kitty and guaranteed them top spot in the group. The win was DSK Shivajians third in the tournament, which includes a draw and loss.

Manager Dave Rogers made seven changes to the playing eleven which included, goalkeeper Rakshit Dagar, Sairuat Kima, Rohit Kumar, Shane McFaul and the return of injured Zohmingliana Ralte and Gagandeep Singh, while Hitova Ayemi earned his maiden first start.

Needing only a win to progress to the last-four, DSK Shivajians got off to a perfect start as they took the lead in the 6th minute. After a defender had handled Hitova Ayemi’s ball in the box, skipper Juan Quero stepped up and slotted home the resultant penalty for his third goal of the competition.

Three minutes later, Quero doubled the lead with one more penalty kick conversion, his second of the game and third in the tournament, after referee penalised Army Green for another handball in the box. With the strike, he joined Rohit Kumar as the top goalscorer with four goals to his name.

After that, DSK Shivajians controlled the majority of the proceedings and created many chances. Sairuat Kima was in the thick of the action going close with a couple of headers which went just wide.

As DSK Shivajians were weaving attacks up front, Army Green capitalised on a small defensive error at the other end to pull one back in the 36th minute.

After Quero had lost the ball in the midfield, the opponents pumped it up immediately. Defender Zohmingliana Ralte held off Army Green’s Herojit Singh on the edge of the box hoping for ‘keeper Rakshit Dagar to make a collection. However, Herojit overpowered Ralte and managed to tip the ball past an advanced Rakshit and into the goal to bring Army Green back into the match.

DSK Shivajians led 2-1 going into the breather.

The second half saw both sides play aggressively and once again it was DSK Shivajians who had the first close chance in the opening ten minutes. This time, Hitova Ayemi almost put DSK Shivajians 3-1 up in the 53rd minute after rounding off the keeper on Arif Shaikh’s through ball, but his attempt had defender Boby Chand Singh clear off the line.

Ten minutes later, it was Army Green who went close. Medio Uttam Das penetrated the DSK Shivajians defence, but skipper Lallawmkina’s shot from close range went just over the woodwork as the scoreline remained 2-1.

The game slowed down in the final 30 minutes with both sides playing cautiously. DSK Shivajians, meanwhile, did well to hold on to their lead and seal a well-deserved 2-1 win.

DSK Shivajians will play the runners-up of Group B in the semi-final on Friday, 9th September 2016.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohammedan Sporting Club held goalless by Peerless SC!

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.

Going into the game Mohammedan SC head coach Mridul Banerjee fielded a unchanged side from their previous match against Southern Samity midweek.

Both the teams started off with caution. However, Mohammedan SC were more organized in attack but could not able penetrate into rival box as Peerless SC defenders did well to keep the strike pair of Leonce Dodoz and Manvir Singh in check.

Dodoz, who was a marked-man from the beginning, had the first chance to put Mohammedan SC ahead but his effort from Dipendu Dowary’s pass was denied by the rival custodian Sankar Roy in the 16th minute.

Peerless SC, on the other hand, came close to scoring on a couple of occasions through Rahim Nabi and Ghanefo Kromah but the Mohammedan defense thwarted their attempts with ease.

Changing over, Mohammedan SC kept on probing into the rival half and they came close with Dowary and Dodoz but Sankar pulled off some good saves, which build frustration in the Mohammedan SC dugout.

Mohammedan SC put relentless pressure on the rival defense in the last quarter of the game, but Peerless SC managed to hold on defending deep as the game ended scoreless.

The Black Panthers will play their next game against United Sports Club on 8th September at the same venue.

Mohammedan Sporting Club XI: Shayan Roy (GK); Nitesh Chhikara, Lancine Toure, Rana Gharami (c), Pranit Lama Tamang; Usman Ashique (Sheikh Faiaz – 26′), Dipankar Das, Mumtaz Akhtar, Dipendu Dowary (Parminder Singh – 76′); Manvir Singh (Manjit Singh – 90+2′), Zikahi Leonce Dodoz.

Photo By Ujjal Sarkhel.

by Abhishek Shukla

Durand Cup: DSK Shivajians stunned by Minerva FC, must-win last match to qualify

 

4th September, 2016 – Delhi, India – DSK Shivajians FC once again fell prey to a last-minute goal and went down 1-2 to Minerva FC in the 128th Durand Cup at the Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday.

The loss was DSK Shivajians’ first in the competition, while Minerva FC registered their first win. Having played out a goalless first-half, DSK Shivajians were first to score when Spanish winger and skipper Juan Quero converted a penalty-kick in the 60th minute. Minerva FC equalised through Lago Bei (79th minute), before Manandeep Singh (90th minute) handed DSK Shivajians a shocker.

The result put a spoke in DSK Shivajians chances of making the semi-finals, which, instead hinges on the last match they play against Army Green on Monday. The match against the defence squad is a must-win situation for DSK Shivajians to progress into the knock-out stage, but above all, it also opened up a chance for Indian Navy as well.

The position in Group-A is; DSK Shivajians (7 points from 4 games) lead, followed by Indian Navy (6 points from 4). Breathing close is Army Green (5 points from 3). Sporting Clube de Goa (4 points from 4) and Minerva FC (4 points from 4) share the fourth spot, while Gangtok Himalayan (3 points from 3) is at the bottom.

Manager Dave Rogers made five changes to the squad. Sayak Barai, Mohd. Sajid Dhot, Maan Singh and Kim Song Yong were brought in along with Amey Ranawade, who earned his maiden start. Those rested included, Rakshit Dagar, Shane McFaul, Surchandra Singh, Sairuat Kima, Zohmingliana Ralte.

In a half dominated by physical game play, it was Minerva’s Manandeep Singh and DSK Shivajians’ Kim Song Yong who had close chances early on. While the woodwork denied Manandeep, Kim went just wide with his header.

As the game progressed, Minerva had their best chance of the first half in the 23rd minute when striker Marcus Lopez had an attempt from close. However, the Guam attacker found a brilliant point-blank save by Sayak Barai keep the score goalless.

In the final minute of the half, DSK Shivajians had an excellent opportunity to take the lead when Quero curled in a perfect free kick into the box to find Kim. However, the North Korean striker, who managed to connect a header, once again went inches wide as the first half ended goalless.

The second half was a fast paced affair with both sides creating numerous chances in the opening quarter. However, it was DSK Shivajians who controlled much of the proceedings with some good moves.

Having piled on constant pressure over the rival goal, DSK Shivajians finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute. Juan Quero, on his second attempt, converted from the penalty spot after striker Kim Song Yong was brought down by Minerva’s defender Gagandeep Singh inside the box. In fact, Quero had scored from the first attempt too, but referee A. Rowan asked for a re- take.

With DSK Shivajians pushing up, Minerva levelled scores at the other end against the run of play in the 79th minute. Nigerian striker Lago Dogbo Bei was the fastest to react to a cross inside the box and scored with a powerful header past ‘keeper Sayak Barai.

DSK Shivajians then conceded late on for the second consecutive game in an ensuing melee that led to Sayak leaving his line and coming forth. The ball, still in danger, deflected onto unmarked striker Manandeep Singh, who slotted into an empty net to dash DSK Shivajians hopes of earning a point.

DSK Shivajians will now play their last Group A game against Army Green at the Harbaksh Stadium on Monday.

by Abhishek Shukla

India rout higher ranked Puerto Rico 4-1 in International friendly

By Ujjal Sarkhel

Mumbai: Young Team India routed a higher ranked Puerto Rico 4-1 in an international friendly match played at Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai on Saturday.

The Blue Tigers fell behind early to an Emanuel Sanchez (8th) strike but replied only eight minutes later through Narayan Das (16th) and then two quick goals from Sunil Chettri (24th) and Jeje Lalpekhlua (33rd) give them a two goal advantage before and Jackichand Singh (59th) put the final nail in the coffin.

Now if we talk about the match from first minute, Puerto Rico started the game with very well aggressive mode. They placed some good attack by using flanks putting the Indian defense under serious threat in the initial minutes.

The visitors broke the deadlock in the 8th minute from a spot kick. Jackichand fouled a Puerto Rico man inside the box which referee gave penalty to the visitors. Striker Sanchez did no mistake to score from the spot kick.

Having conceded, India, who started with Sunil and Jeje upfront, dominated majority of the proceedings looking for the equaliser. In the 17th minute, Bikash Jairu was brought down just on the edge of the box and Sunil shouldered the duty to taking the free-kick. His right footed effort hit the woodeork but left back Narayan scored with the follow up giving the rival custodian no chance.

The goal gave the Stephen Constantine-coached side much-needed confidence as they stormed ahead via Sunil. Andrea tripped down Sunil at the edge of the box which earned a free-kick for India and Sunil did no mistake to curl into the top left corner in the 24th minute.

After taking the lead India looked more dangerous as they placed a host of attacks in the Puerto Rico box and Jeje once again showed his goal scoring ability in the 33rd minute. Sunil after receiving a long ball from Pritam Kotal fed it to Jeje who headed home to make the scoreline steeper for the visitors.

The boys in the blue headed towards the dressing room with a handsome lead of 3-1.

India introduced Rowllin Borges and Halicharan Narzary at the expenses of Bikash Jairu and Pronay Halder at the begining of the second session.

Halicharan made a immediate impact and almost got an assist in the 47th minute, but his long ball was too heavy for Eugeneson Lyngdoh who was trying to cut in from the right flank.

Meanwhile, Puerto Rico went agonisingly close through substitute Ramos but the woodwork came in for India’s help.

Around the hour mark Jackichand Singh finally got his name on the scoresheet when he smashed the roof of the net. Jeje delivered a delightful cross from the left to Eugeneson who just flicked it for Jackichand and the winger slotted home.

In the remainder of the game, Puerto Rico did show some excellent moves in patches but they could not convert chances as India held on for a well-deserved 4-1 win.

by Abhishek Shukla

Durand Cup: Minerva Academy hold Army Green 2-2

 

Delhi: Minerva Academy FC took on Army Green in an all important fixture today at Harbakash Stadium, Delhi. The crucial clash saw Minerva Academy FC coming in with 6 changes again, goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh faced with a sudden illness made way for 16 year old rookie Goalkeeper Shamsher Singh, Liberian Korhena Boakai was rested for Jarmanjit Singh who came back from suspension. The midfield too saw a couple of changes as Clifford Miranda who sufferd a concussion and head injury in the last match was replaced by young Girik Khosla. In the midfield, former Dempo SC man Steven Fernandes and 15 year old sensation Jackson Singh were rested in favour of Amandeep Singh and former Churchill man Jaison Vales. The three pronged Minervan attack comprised of Girik Khosla, Guam National Team player Marcus Lopez and Victor Amobi  who tried to compensate for Manandeep Singh who was serving his suspension from picking up a red card in the last match. Army Green who had 4 points from their two matches played, came into the game having won their last match against I-league giants Sporting Club de Goa. Army green were eager for a win to secure their spot in the semi finals.

A Determined Minerva Academy FC side came into action from the very first minute with Nigerian Victor Amboi’s incredible run through the flanks and a beautiful cross for his teammate Jarmajit only to see his header go wide. The next following few minutes brought in a few very good moves from Minervan players but all attempts at the goal were either off target or saved by the keeper who stayed. Minerva however did not loose hope and tried their best to score but all efforts were in vain. 15 Minutes into the game and  Army Green now seemed to be settling in, opening up the Midfield and using its flanks very efficiently. Minerva’s Defence however didn’t entertain much of Army Greens moves until at the 22 minute when a wrong pass by Minervan midfielder Amandeep Singh at the centre saw Army Green’s midfield making the best of it with a counter attack and scoring their first goal. Minervans looked undeterred and again started afresh with flooding the Army Green’s defence with numerous counter attacks and some fine footwork from Strikers Marcus Lopez and Girik Khosla however all efforts through the flanks from Victor Amboi and Akashdeep Singh were flicked out by the Army Green Defenders who were getting away with lot of rough play. In the meanwhile Girik Kohsla was booked for a 50-50 attempt with the Army Green goalkeeper and was shown a yellow card. The next couple of moments saw Army Green making some dangerous moves in the centre of the park but a fierce Minervan Defence made it for them difficult. However again in the 35th Minute, Minerva’s young keeper, Shamsher Singh who was playing his first game of the tournament, brought down a charging army striker, which made the referee point to the spot. Army Green converted the penalty making the score 2-0 in Army’s favour. Minervans once again found themselves under pressure but kept raiding the opposition half till the half time whistle.

A two goal lead at the half mark made Army Greens very confident and gave them a upper hand but Minervans were very there from some serious business and didnt let the score line discourage them when the returned from the break. They got straight to work and fought back hard. Striker Girik Khosla missed an easy chance, Marcus and Jaison Vales both took dangerous long range shots at the goal. Some beautiful moves from Minervan Midfield anchored by experienced goan Jaison Vales caused problems keeping the Army Green Defenders busy. A ray of hope came in 48th Minute when Jaison Vales was brought down on top of the box and free kick was awarded to Minerva. Marcus Lopez, Guam International stepped up to take the free kick and did his job well by beating the wall and sending a thundering shot into the far left corner of the goalpost giving the Army Green’s goalkeeper absolutely no chance to save it.

A determined Minervan side then made a number of good attacks to equalise the score but a rough defending by Army Green saw minerva making nothing out of it. In the 75th minute, the ball was released beautifully by Jaison Vales to Victor Amobi who rushed into the box for a great opportunity only to be brought down by the Army keeper. This time the referee pointed to the spot without hesitation. Guam international Marcus stepped up to do the honours and indeed he did his job very well, drawing the scores at 2-2. The next ten minutes saw the introduction of Ivory Coast striker Lago Bei who came on for Marcus Lopez. His fresh legs and fantastic play gave Minerva numerous more chances before the final whistle. The Minervans squandered many corners and failed to score the winner while Army started deploying time wasting tactics to slow down the game. Despite long stoppages during the play, only 2 minutes of extra time were added and Minerva could not score the winner and failed to get the full three points they were after. The lads form chandigarh had to settle for a Draw 2-2.

Minerva Academy next face an experienced Sporting Club De Goa team tomorrow at 4.00 in Ambedkar stadium,Delhi.

by Abhishek Shukla

Durand Cup: SC de Goa thrash Gangtok Himalayan SC 5-1

SCG Press Release

Sporting Clube de Goa proved to be too hot for the highlanders as the Goan side thrashed their Gangtok opponents 5 – 1 in their 4thmatch of Durand Cup 2016. Cajetan Fernandes (4’) opened the flood gates with an early header while, Marcus Mascarenhas (17’),Joseph Pereira (33’), Ganesh Thakur (45’+) & Victorino Fernandes (55’) got their names on the score sheet. For GangtokHimalayan SC Rishab Sharma (19’) scored the consolation goal.

Sporting Clube de Goa was off to a flying start right from the kick-off. In the very first minute Victorino Fernandes made a dazzling run but couldn’t get his shot off. In the 4th minute Sporting won a corner which was delivered elegantly by Harpreet Singh finding Cajetan Fernandes in the box who slotted home the early goal Sporting were looking for. Sporting maintained a good shape and looked dangerous with the aerial balls. In the 17th minute the Goan side won another corner kick which was a carbon copy of the first, Harpreet Singh once again managed to send in a beauty this time to find Marcus at the end of it who powered it past the Gangtok keeper. Trying to get back into the game Gangtok SC  made some brilliant passes to find Rishab Sharma who beat the Sporting defenders and put one past Ravi Kumar to make it 2 -1 in the 19th minute. Just when Gangtok SC felt they were getting back in the game Joseph Pereira hoodwinked the defenders to brilliantly control a ball from Ganesh Thakur and slot it past the keeper making it 3 – 1. After setting up the previous goal Ganesh Thakur himself slotted in the 4th goal just before half-time. In the injury time Gangtok SC won a penalty but it was just one of those days where nothing could go against Sporting as Rishab hit the post and missed their chance to narrow the gap. Score stayed 4 – 1 at the half-time.

Crossing over Sporting were completely in control, Glan Martins and Cajetan Fernandes bossed the midfield. At the other end Loveday Enyinnaya & Harpreet Singh put up a brilliant show. The attacking intent of Harpreet and Loveday made things worse for the highlanders. In the 55th minute Victorino Fernandes further increased the gap with a 22 yards rasping shot which went past the keeper making it 5 – 1 with little left to play for Gangtok SC. Rest of the half saw Sporting dominate proceedings while creating some good chances. Towards the injury time Victorino Fernandes  of Sporting & Baichung of Gangtok SC were given their marching orders by the referee for a rough tackle.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohammedan SC stay focused ahead of Peerless test

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 Abhishek Shukla

Durand Cup: DSK Shivajians FC wary of Minerva FC threat

 

3rd September, 2016 – Delhi, India – DSK Shivajians FC is a step short of adding another page to their history when they clash with Minerva FC in a Group-A encounter of the 128th Durand Cup 2016 at the Ambedkar Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday.

Having gathered seven points from their first three matches, DSK Shivajians has put themselves in the race for a berth in the semi-finals. But, for DSK Shivajians to be certain they need to extend their unbeaten run, rather than leave it for their last match to decide which would mean playing within 24 hours against Army Green.

The scenario in Group-A is; DSK Shivajians (7 points; 3 games), Indian Navy (6 points from 4), Army Green (4 points from 2).

The encounter, competitively, is a first for both sides. However, the lead up into this game has been a contrast for both. DSK Shivajians began with a 2-1 victory over Sporting Clube de Goa, then followed it up with a 2-1 verdict over Gangtok Himalayan SC, before playing out an exciting 3-3 draw with Indian Navy, where a last-gasp goal denied them three wins in-a-row

Chandigarh-based Minerva FC has been at the receiving end by going fighting 0-2 to Gangtok Himalayan SC and then 0-3 to Indian Navy where they finished the game with 10-men.

Ahead of the crucial match, DSK Shivajians First Team Manager Dave Rogers said: “They have some good individual players who if are given time and space, could cause problems.”

On paper, Minerva FC, runners-up of last year’s I-League Second Division, has an experienced lineup, something that DSK Shivajians will be wary. Manager Rogers realises and, explains “We know this will be a tough game and one that need us to be at our best to achieve a positive result. No game of football is a given for any team, so we know that apart from trying to play good football, we must also win our battles throughout the pitch to achieve a positive outcome.”

Having made his observations, Rogers for a fact has a load of positives that he takes into the game. To begin with, DSK Shivajians has done well to take the lead and win, likewise hold their nerves to come back after conceding a goal.

Adding up is Dave has four scorers, namely Rohit Kumar (4 goals); Kim Song Yong, Arif Shaikh and Juan Quero who scored seven among themselves. The tactical rotation of foreign players  and finding the right composition has led to almost all of the 18-man squad getting a chance on the field.

While the positives are many, conceding goals in the latter part of the second half remains.

On the other hand, the list of casualties in the DSK Shivajians camp has increased after Zohmingliana Ralte received a concussion while going for a ball in the last match against Indian Navy. Gagandeep Singh, who injured himself against Gangtok Himalayan, is still out of the reckoning.

Dave added, “The players must keep believing in themselves, their ability and continue to enjoy the occasion.”

Aware that Minerva FC is yet to get their scoring act together, DSK Shivajians, with youth and experience combining well, look set. A clean sheet could add up to confidence on the morrow, the biggest target DSK Shivajians will hope is to get a positive result.

On the other hand, the list of casualties in the DSK Shivajians camp has increased after Zohmingliana Ralte received a concussion while going for a ball in the last match against Indian Navy. Gagandeep Singh, who was injured in the match against Gangtok Himalayan, is still out of reckoning.

Looking ahead Dave observed, “The players must keep believing in themselves, their ability and continue to enjoy the occasion.”

Aware that Minerva FC is yet to get their scoring act together, DSK Shivajians, with youth and experience combining well, look set. A clean sheet could add up as another positive but probably the biggest target DSK Shivajians will hope for is to get a positive result.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Delhi Dynamos sign ex-Real Madrid defender Ruben Gonzalez

 

New Delhi, Sep 3: Delhi Dynamos on Saturday announced the signing of former Celta Vigo and Real Madrid defender Ruben Gonzalez as their second marquee footballer for the third edition of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL).

Ruben was part of the Real Madrid squad that won the Champions League in 2001-2002 and he then went on to win the Spanish La Liga in 2002-2003. He played more than 70 matches for Celta.

On signing for Delhi Dynamos FC, 34-year-old Ruben said: “I am really excited to join Delhi Dynamos, having played for most of my career in Spain and Germany, I am looking forward to playing in Asia for the first time.”

Speaking on Ruben’s signing, Dynamos Head Coach Gianluca Zambrotta said: “We are glad to have Ruben Gonzalez in our team. He will strengthen our defence and he will definitely be one of the leaders on and off the pitch for the club.

The experienced defender has immense experience in Spanish club football, making over 200 appearances playing at clubs like Racing Santander, Mallorca, Ossasuna, amongst others.

The latest signing joins Delhi Dynamos after two seasons of regular football at Real Zaragoza.

Ruben will be in the Delhi Dynamos F.C. squad for the charity friendly match being played against West Bromwich Albion F.C. at the Hawthorns later on Saturday.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL kicks off global phase of Premier Skills in Mumbai

MUMBAI: Premier Skills, the joint initiative between the Premier League and British Council, will launch in Mumbai on Monday the 5th of September in partnership with the Indian Super League and All India Football Federation. This marks the start of the new three-year Premier Skills programme in India and globally, and is taking place in Mumbai for the very first time.

Premier Skills is a proven model. Since the programme began in 2007, 7,600 coaches and referees have been trained in 29 countries, who in turn have reached 1.2 million young people.

Building on that success, Premier Skills is embarking on a new three-year global programme, starting with phase 1 in Mumbai, strengthening existing networks of Premier Skills coaches and rolling out training to a new generation of community football coaches across the world.

Premier Skills has already delivered a highly successful programme in India, training 400 coaches, who in turn have reached 20,000 young people since the programme began here.

Premier Skills in Mumbai will build on that track record. Taking place at the Father Agnel School sports centre in Vashi, the Premier Skills ‘Phase 1’ course will see 50 Indian grassroots and elite youth coaches from all eight ISL clubs and and the following NGOs – Magic Bus, Slum Soccer, Special Olympics Bharat Maharashtra, Cequin, Dream a Dream and Oscar Foundation participate. The coaches will receive week-long expert training from qualified Premier Skills coaches, giving them the skills and support to develop their own community football projects.

The course in Mumbai will be led by Jeremy Weeks, Premier Skills Head Coach. He will be supported by Robert Parrett, Development Manager at Crystal Palace Football Club and Katie Bottom, Women and Girls Development Officer at West Ham United Football Club. They will be joined by three Indian Premier Skills coach educators who have come through the programme in India between 2013-16 and will be on hand to assist the Premier League coaching team and pass on their experience to their fellow Indian coaches.

Mumbai will also mark the beginning of a partnership between Premier Skills, All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Ltd (FSDL), a joint venture between IMG-Reliance and Star India. The Phase 1 course will be delivered in partnership with AIFF and FSDL, supporting the development of the ISL’s community programmes. The aim is to extend this partnership across the full three phase training programme under Premier Skills.

AIFF have accredited the Premier Skills Phase 1 training as equivalent to their D Licence certification. Candidates who successfully complete the Phase 1 course will further be able to apply for an AFC C Certificate course after a period of three months of successfully completing the Phase 1 course.

Richard Scudamore, Premier League Executive Chairman, said:

“This is an exciting new stage for Premier Skills in India, as we now build on the foundations the project has laid through our work in Kolkata and across Goa and Kerala. Our new partnership with the Indian Super League and its clubs, and several excellent sports NGOs, means new male and female coaches will be trained right across the country. And this number will multiply, as our Indian coach educators also deliver new Premier Skills programmes, resulting in an even greater number of people starting on the pathway to becoming a qualified coach.”

Smt. Nita Ambani, Chairperson, Football Sports Development Ltd., said:

“We are extremely glad to partner with Premier Skills and strengthen our existing relationship with the Premier League. It is a strong step towards further building the ISL grassroots program and will provide a huge impetus and growth opportunity to our homegrown coaches as well as the community they work with. We believe initiatives like Premier Skills and Referee Workshops with FIFA and Professional Game Match Official Limited (PGMOL) will help drive professionalism into the sport..”

Kushal Das, General Secretary, AIFF, said:

“All India Football Federation welcome the initiative and are delighted to associate with Premier Skills. AIFF will award ‘D’ licensing certificate to all the candidates who successfully complete the Premier Skills Phase 1 certification.”

Alan Gemmell, Director British Council India, said:

“The return of Premier Skills to India is testament to the continuing global appeal of Premier League football as well as the impact that the programme itself has had in India over the last nine years. We are looking forward to working with the Premier League and our local partners in empowering more Indian coaches to deliver life-changing impact for young people in their community through the power of football.”

by Abhishek Shukla

Lajong beat Nongkrem SC 3-0 in Shillong Premier League

Shillong 3rd August: Shillong Lajong FC defeated newcomers Nongkrem SC  by 3-0 in the Shillong Premier League encounter played today at JN Stadium, Shillong.

Samuela, Hardy and Jacob each found the net for the Reds in the last 10 minutes of the match.

Lajong have not lost a single game and are now at the top of the Gionee Shillong Premier League 2016 table with 10 points from four matches.

The match was evenly contested in the opening quarter of the match. Nongkrem had a lot of pace on the wings and were determined to put up a good fight against defending champions Shillong Lajong. The Reds did not find the expected rhythm and possession in the match and both teams struggled to maintain possession. In the second quarter of the First half, the referee awarded a controversial foul to Nongkrem outside the Lajong box as the Nongkrem player appeared to trip on his own foot. The Reds erupted in protest against the referee’s decision which resulted in Lajong Defender Nim Dorjee being sent off. Nongkrem had a good chance in the second half when their forward lobbed the ball towards goal but the keeper did just enough to tip the ball towards the bar which then rebounded back in play and cleared away by the defence. The first half however ended with no goals scored as Nongkrem SC failed to capitalise on the one man advantage.

Lajong seemed to have had some good words in the break as they played a much better second half. The Reds were enjoying more possession and pressed forward looking for a good chance at goal. Nongkrem played well on the counter and had couple of good chances to take the lead and upset Lajong. After the hour mark of the match, Lajong seemed to be heading to a disappointing result as the chances were not converted and silly mistakes in passes meant chances were squandered. However, in the 84th minute, the reds played some beautiful tiki-take style football around the opponents box and Samuela found himself clear on goal to give Lajong the lead. Then in the 88th minute, Hardy Nongbri doubled the lead after finding some space on the right and placed the ball past the keeper. The match was sealed in the 90th minute after Jacob took a left footer shot just on the edge of the box from the left and made it 3-0.

Lajong earned all 3 points today after leaving it late and will be playing their next match on the 8th of September 2016 against Malki SC.