Category: News

by Abhishek Shukla

DSK Shivajians beat SC de Goa 2-1 in 2016 Durand Cup opener

 

28th August, 2016 – Pune, India: DSK Shivajians FC registered a historic 2-1 victory over Sporting Clube de Goa in their first-ever appearance in the 128th Durand Cup at the Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday.

First-half strikes from midfielder Rohit Kumar (9th minute) and North Korean Kim Song-Young (43rd minute) helped DSK Shivajians FC impress in the inaugural match of the tournament. The Goans pulled one back via striker Victorino Fernandes (63rd minute) in the second half.

The victory gave DSK Shivajians FC three points and helped them open their account in Group-A.

Playing the tournament for the first time, DSK Shivajians FC broke the deadlock early through an intelligent move. Skipper Juan Quero, from the right flank, delivered a ball which Kim left for Rohit. The midfielder utilised the opportunity and hammered the ball in from the edge of the box and lead 1-0.

DSK Shivajians FC restricted the Goans from attacking which resulted in the opponents trying from long distances.

Two minutes before half time, DSK Shivajians FC added another goal. This time again it was skipper Juan Quero’s try from the edge of the box that crashed off the horizontal and fell at Kim’s feet who tapped in past goalkeeper Ravi Kumar from close.

At half time, DSK Shivajians FC led 2-0.

Eighteen minutes after resumption, Sporting Clube de Goa pulled one back. Striker Victorino reached out to the end of the ball sent in by Seriton Fernandes and found way past DSK Shivajians ‘keeper Rakshit Dagar.

Having conceded, DSK Shivajians FC came close in increasing the lead. A foul on DSK Shivajians Maan Singh led to a freekick which Quero took and found Shane McFaul. The delivery was long and good , but Shane’s header on target was held on by the Sporting keeper Ravi Kumar.

At the other end, DSK Shivajians FC ‘keeper Rakshit made a heroic save to deny Sporting Clube de Goa a chance of equalizing when he blocked Victorino’s try from close.

In the closing minutes, DSK Shivajians FC went close again when Surachandra Singh almost had substitute Hitova in the clear, but to his dismay Sporting Clube defender Loveday intercepted the move.

A minute before full time, Sporting Club had a last ditch effort hit the post when Glan Martins’ crashed his free-kick on the vertical.

by Abhishek Shukla

Minerva Academy FC set to make Durand Cup debut

DELHI: The 128th edition of the Durand Cup kicks off on August 28, with an enthralling Pool A match between Sporting Clube de Goa and DSK Shivajians at Ambedkar Stadium. The 128th Durand tournament has the highest ever prize fund worth Rs 75 lakh owing to newly roped in sponsors. The winning team will get Rs 45 lakh, the runners-up Rs 20 lakh and the losing semi-finalists Rs 5 lakh each. After a brief sojourn in Goa, the Durand football tournament has returned to its original home, Delhi. It was last held here in 2013. In 2014 it was shifted to Goa and last season it was not held. The 128th edition will be held simultaneously at the Ambedkar and Harbaksh Singh Stadiums from August 28 to September 11

Overall, 12 teams, divided into two groups are participating. The top two from each group will reach the knock out semi-finals.

Three I-League first division participants this season are, Sporting Clube de Goa, DSK Shivajians and Aizawl FC (both debutants). Five teams have been roped in from the second division, Dempo SC, Minerva FC, Neroca FC, Gangtok Himalayan and Real Kashmir FC. Except for 2006 Durand champions Dempo, the other four are making their debut. The remaining four teams are from the Services, Army Red, Army Green, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. The pools have been divided as follows:

Pool A: SC De Goa, DSK Shivajian, Minerva AFC, Gangtok Himalayan, Indian Navy & Army Green.
Pool B: Aizawl FC, Dempo SC, Neroca FC, Real Kashmir, Army Red, Indian Air Force.

Minerva AFC have created history by being the first team from Chandigarh to qualify for the main draw of the prestigious Durand Cup and are hopeful of a good showing as they have been undergoing rigorous training for the past few months in preparation for the tournament. This season Minerva has roped in some experienced players to give stability and direction to the team along with the usual crop of talented local youngsters. Clifford Rayes Miranda, Ex India Captain has been commissioned for the Durand cup to step into the leadership role. Other crucial signings include Manandeep Singh of ISL, Kerala Blaster fame; Victor Amobi, Captain of the Nepal Premier League Champions (3 Star Club) and last minute singing of Asian Origin Foreign striker Marcus PJ Lopez of Guam National Team. Despite being pinned against the best teams of the country, the football world is abuzz with predictions of Minerva AFC as title contenders. The Asian Age recently called Minerva AFC, “The Dark Horse” of the tournament. Head Coach Surinder Singh is happy with the team, “We have put in the hard work and if God is on our side, we will not come back empty handed!”

Minerva AFC 26 Member Squad for Durand Cup:

Arshdeep Singh,  Arshdeep Singh (GK), Kamalpreet Singh, Jarmanjit Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Amandeep Singh, Jaison Vales, Girik Khosla, Harpreet Bedi, Gagandeep Singh, Steven Fernandes, Moinuddin, Akash Sangwan, Korhena A Boakai, Clifford Miranda, Jackson Singh, Victor Amobi, Lago Bei, Shamsher Singh, Manandeep Singh, Marcus PJ Lopez, Sukhjit Singh, Rajan Negi, Jairam, Narendra Vakare, Salman Lateef

FIXTURES OF MINERVA AFC

Minerva AFC vs Gangtok Himalayan at 18.45 hrs at Ambedkar Stadium.
Minerva AFC vs Indian Navy at 16.30 hrs at Harbaksh Stadium.
Minerva AFC vs Army Green at 16.30 hrs at Harbaksh Stadium.
Minerva AFC vs DSK Shivajians at 16.30 hrs at Ambedkar Stadium.
Minerva AFC vs Sporting Club De Goa at 16.30 hrs Ambedkar Stadium.
9th September, 2016 Semi finals.
11th September 2016 Finals.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: East Bengal continue to top the table with a 2-1 win over Southern Samity

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 Abhishek Shukla

DSK Shivajians FC set to play Sporting Clube de Goa in Durand Cup Opener

 

27th August 2016 – Delhi, India – A new-look DSK Shivajians FC, under Manager Dave Rogers, is set to take on Sporting Club de Goa in their first-ever Durand Cup encounter at the Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday.

The face-off between the two I-League clubs would formally inaugurate the 128th edition of the tournament. Interestingly, DSK Shivajians FC made their I-League debut against Sporting Club de Goa at Goa, which ended in a stalemate.

Pune-based DSK Shivajians FC goes into the game fresh from a victory over I-League champions Bengaluru FC in a pre-season friendly. The morale-boosting win will certainly be motivation enough for the squad to make an instant impact in their first tournament of the season.

Looking forward to the Durand Cup opener, First Team Manager Dave Rogers, said: “We are eagerly looking forward to the Durand Cup. We have worked really hard in the pre-season. The players and coaches are excited to take part in this prestigious tournament. The fact that our first match in the tournament comes against an I-League opposition makes the first game even more vital.”

The last time the DSK Shivajians and Sporting Clube met was at the Balewadi Stadium, Pune, in the I-League, where the former registered their biggest victory of the season, defeating their Goan counterparts 3-1.

DSK Shivajians FC, ahead of the season (2016-17), has strengthened their squad by adding former Irish youth international midfielder Shane McFaul. Similarly, Spanish winger Juan Quero earned a contract extension following his impressive performance in the I-League last year. The signing of North Korean striker Kim Song Yong, who spent the last two seasons leading the line at Bengaluru FC, ensures Manager Dave has experienced players at his disposal.

A host of youth players from the Liverpool FC International Academy – DSK Shivajians add sting to the side. The eleven graduates that make up the majority of the 20-man team are players who have played under Dave for two seasons.

Comparatively, DSK Shivajians FC’s Goan rivals go into the tournament off the back of having played the Goa Police Cup and one match in the Goa Professional League. In the three competitive games the Goans played so far, they have lost one and won two.

Having remained unbeaten against the Goans, DSK Shivajians FC would look at their track record as another positive.

by Abhishek Shukla

Reliance Foundation Youth Sports Embarks Upon Creating Unified Sports Culture For India

Aims to help propel India’s growth as a multi-sports nation : Mrs Ambani

Mumbai, August 27, 2016:

Mrs Nita Ambani, Member, International Olympic Committee and Chairperson Reliance Foundation today kicked off one of the most ambitious multi-discipline pan India school and college sports programmes under the banner of Reliance Foundation Youth Sports.

Joining Mrs. Nita Ambani on the occasion was Ranbir Kapoor, an avid sports follower, an owner of Mumbai City FC and member of the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports Advisory Board.

Reliance Foundation Youth Sports is poised to professionalise school and college sports competitions with a unified approach towards creating an eco-system to encourage, support and define a career path in sports for today’s youth.

Calling for a need of integrated sports support system in our education, Mrs Nita Ambani said, “Reliance Foundation Youth Sports was set up with the aim to propel India’s growth towards a multi- sports nation through robust school and college level initiatives.

“Reliance Foundation will also introduce the ‘Student Athlete’ program at early student life to scout, nurture, guide and create a viable career path for young sportspeople across the country in all discipline of sports.”

For first year, Reliance Foundation School Sports will witness a fierce football competition among 2000 schools and colleges institutes from eight cities fielding 2200 teams in four categories i.e. Junior Boys, Senior Boys, Senior Girls and College Boys. The competitions will have pre-qualifying rounds, followed by main draws respectively in Mumbai, Delhi, Guwahati, Kochi, Goa, Chennai, Pune and Kolkata. City winners in each category would qualify to play for the national honours.

As part of Mumbai leg of launch today, HR College played against Wilson College in the Senior Girls category. Over the next three months, Mumbai and its suburbs will see over 500 institutes fielding over 600 teams will play football at various grounds. Subsequently, the qualifying rounds of the rest of cities will also commence in the coming days.

Starting from next year, Reliance Foundation Youth Sports will double the participatory city numbers from 8 to 16, and progressively to 50 plus cities and far flung towns in India by the fifth year (2020). School and Colleges across country will have options to participate in multi-discipline sports such as Football, Basketball, Athletics, Badminton, Volleyball etc. at a National level through Reliance Foundation Youth Sports.

Reliance Foundation Youth Sports will produce video footage of the competitions, making the scouting process for raw talent a much easier task across the country. Furthermore the archive video footage would assist in technical analyses, identifying shortcomings and improvise action for young athletes. For first year of football competitions, the Youth Sports programme is expected to create 7000 hours of video content over the next four months of action, which will be available on www.rfyouthsports.com

Reliance Foundation Youth Sports has set up an elite six member Advisory Board consisting of leading sports personalities and educationalists including Nita Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Leander Paes, Saina Nehwal, Prof. Dipak Jain and Ranbir Kapoor.

 

 

by Abhishek Shukla

Hero ISL 2016 packs a powerful schedule to bring the country together to celebrate football

Press Release

Mumbai City FC and ATK to have new home grounds for this season First Maharashtra derby to be played on 3 rd October Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa renew rivalry, face off on 13 th October in Chennai Hero Indian Super League, the unrivalled competition that emerged as the third best attended football league globally in its second season, is once again set to capture India and world’s attention starting Saturday, October 1, 2016.

The promoters, Football Sports Development Ltd. today announced Hero ISL 2016 fixtures, featuring 61 games spread across 79 days played in a home-away league format followed by two-legged semi-finals and the final. The ‘Super Sunday’ final is scheduled on December 18, 2016. Venue for the finals will be announced at a later date. All the matches will kick off at 1900 hrs (IST).

Guwahati gets ready for Lights & Cameras, NorthEast for Action With just over a month from now, Guwahati will witness galaxy of stars descending to lighten up the spirit of beautiful game in the North East with Hero ISL 2016 opening ceremony scheduled on 1 st October.

With ISL focus on the region, John Abraham owned club NorthEast United FC would hope it aspire his boys to get a jump start to their campaign when they take on Sachin Tendulkar owned Kerala Blasters FC. Coincidently, 2016 would turn out to be the third consecutive opening clash rivalry between John Vs Sachin in a row, NorthEast United having won 1-0 on 4 th October 2014 at home and losing 1-3 on 6 th Oct 2015 at Kochi ground.

NorthEast United’s Home match fixture (Indira Gandhi Stadium, Guwahati):

1 st Oct. vs Kerala Blasters FC; 4 th Oct: vs. FC Goa; 20 th Oct vs Chennaiyin FC; 28 th Oct. vs Atletico de Kolkata;

5 th Nov vs Mumbai City FC; 22 nd Nov vs FC Pune City and 30 th Nov vs Delhi Dynamos FC.

Clash of Titans Action will move from the emerging football market in far East to the hub of the football in West

Bengal very next day, with Atletico de Kolkata backed by its loyal fans will get the first feel of their

new home ground at Rabindra Sarobar stadium.

The two ISL Titans – inaugural champs ATK and defending champs Chennaiyin FC will get down to business putting their pre-season training plans to test as early as second day of the League.

Atletico de Kolkata’s Home Match Fixture (Rabindra Sarobar Stadium) : 2 nd Oct. vs

Chennaiyin FC; 16 th Oct. vs FC Goa; 22 nd Oct. vs Delhi Dynamos FC; 25 th Oct. vs Mumbai City

FC; 17 th Nov vs NorthEast United FC; 29 th Nov. vs Kerala Blasters FC; 2 nd Dec. vs FC Pune City.

Mumbai Local to chug on Fast Line Ranbir Kapoor’s Mumbai City FC would hope to gain from their move to city’s fast life on western line, as they leave the harbour line’s D Y Patil stadium at Navi Mumbai to settle at the newly laid greens at Mumbai Football Arena (Andheri Sports Complex). Mumbai City FC will play its first home match on 7 th October against NorthEast United.

Mumbai City FC’s Home Fixtures (Mumbai Football Arena, Andheri Sports Complex) : 7 th Oct

vs NorthEast United; 11 th Oct vs Atletico de Kolkata; 21 st Oct vs Fc Goa; 10 th Nov vs FC Pune

City; 19 th Nov vs Kerala Blasters FC; 23 rd Nov vs Chennaiyin FC; 3 rd Dec vs Delhi Dynamos FC.

Super Machas Face Off Gaurs Defending Champions would come home to play to its capacity crowd for the first time since lifting the ISL 2015 trophy with a match scheduled on 6 th October against Delhi Dynamos.

However, the bigger match everyone would await with beaten breath could be on 13 th October when the Super Machas will have a face-off with FC Goa at Marina Arena.

Chennaiyin FC Home Fixtures (Marina Arena) : 6 th Oct vs Delhi Dynamos FC; 13 th Oct vs FC

Goa; 29 th Oct vs Kerala Blasters FC; 2 nd Nov vs Mumbai City FC; 15 th Nov vs FC Pune City; 20 th

Nov vs Atletico de Kolkata; 26 th Nov vs NorthEast United FC;

Detailed fixture can be viewed at www.indiansuperleague.com

ISL 2015 : A Recap

The second edition of Hero Indian Super League witnessed an unparalleled response in the history of Indian Football. ISL established astounding ratings for the sport on air and surpassed the Spanish La Liga in terms of average stadium attendance to be the third most attended football league globally. Hero ISL brought Indian football to the world stage with its high quality football. The globally viewed competition had a whopping 186 goals scored in the second season as compared to 129 in the inaugural season at an average of 3.09 goals per game. Indians assisted in 45 goals and scored 48 that included two hat-tricks by Sunil Chhetri and Haokip. Stevin Mendoza won the Golden Boot for the Champions scoring 13 goals in the season. Over 1.65 million fans made their way to eight city based club’s home stadiums to witness this unrivalled footballing event unfold.

by Abhishek Shukla

Delhi Dynamos F.C. sign 2006 World Cup Winner Simone Barone

ISL MEDIA TEAM

The Delhi Dynamos Football Club continued its endeavour at strengthening the squad for the upcoming season of the Hero Indian Super League, by appointing another 2006 World Cup winning midfielder Simone Barone as their Assistant Coach.

The club has also announced the signing of Sebastian Delgado of Spain and Italian Roberto Ghielmetti as the Goalkeeping Coach and Fitness Coach respectively for the new season, while Mario Cerra of Italy will be the new Team Manager as well as the Medico Assistant.

This strengthens the existing coaching staff duo of Raman Vijayan and Shakti Chauhan who have been with the club since its inception. The coaches have played a vital role as the Technical Directors of the club’s grassroots initiatives as well.

Italian Simone Barone will work as an assistant to World Cup winning compatriot, Gianluca Zambrotta, who was signed up as the Head Coach of the Delhi Dynamos F.C. The two played for Italy in the 2006 World Cup, where they beat France on penalties in the dramatic final.

“I am delighted to join the Delhi Dynamos team. This is my first senior team coaching stint and I am really looking forward to it,” Barone said. “I am thankful to the club management for this opportunity. I am really excited about this new phase of my career and hope to assist the team to its first title in the ISL” he added.

Simone Barone, a veteran of 356 club games with a total goal tally of 23, started his career in 1997. After a career spanning over nearly 15 years, he hung up his boots in 2012. After his retirement, he went on to coach the Modena U-19 team.

The 38-year-old has featured in many top clubs in Italy, including Palermo, Torino, Cagliari and Chievo. Known for his energy and stamina, he was admired for his versatility: he could operate from multiple positions in the midfield, be it central midfield, right wing or deeper in a defensive role.

Sebastian Delgado arrives at the club with a huge reputation after being involved in high profile assignments, namely being the Director of Keepers Academy of the Finnish giants HJK Helsinki. Incidentally, Delhi Dynamos star of the last season Richard Gadze is on loan to Helsinki. The Spaniard is the personal coach of Toni Doblas and lot of credit goes to him for Doblas’ extremely good work between the sticks last season, where he missed on the golden glove by whiskers. He will look to weave the same magic on Sanjiban Ghosh and Soram Poirei and turn them into a solid wall in the upcoming season.

Roberto Ghielmetti, who will be responsible for keeping the squad fit and devoid of injuries during the season, was selected by Zambrotta himself, owing to his experience and credibility. The Italian holds a masters degree in sports science from the University of Turin and started his career at U-16 squad of Team Ticino and continued his career at the club eventually becoming the Fitness Coach for the U-16, U-17, and U-18 teams. He was also served as the fitness coach of the FC Locarno, FC Lugano, AC Spezia, and AC Bellinzona in his career before starting this new chapter with Delhi Dynamos F.C.

“I am very happy to work with Gianluca. I am looking forward to a successful season with the club,” said Ghielmetti.

by Abhishek Shukla

Shillong Lajong FC and Royal Wahingdoh FC played out a goalless

Shillong 26 th August: Shillong Lajong FC and Royal Wahingdoh FC played out a goalless draw today at the JN Stadium Shillong.

Lajong started off brightly and earned the first corner of the match within 5 minutes and came close in scoring but Royal Wahingdoh defenders did well to prevent a goal.

Lajong enjoyed good ball possession while their opponents were dangerous on the counter attack. It was a heated first half as there were a couple of scuffles between the two teams in the first half. This added to the intensity of the match and nerves kicked in amongst players leading to silly errors on the pitch. Lajong had good chances in front of goal in the first half but lacked the finish. Similarly, Royal Wahingdoh threatened the Lajong defence but was not able to convert.

The second half was a more restrained affair than the first half. Both teams put great effort in breaking the deadlock but did not have the flow of rhythm they would normally be accustomed to. In the 58th minute, Samuela fed a good ball to Milan Basumatary but the latter’s shot went narrowly wide off the post. Lajong had another best chance of the match in the 65th minute on the counter as Jacob lobbed the ball towards Bipin whose speed took him right inside the box but could not make the shot on goal or find Milan who was free on the right as the defence blocked his effort.

In the final stages of the match, Isaac found some space on the right and crossed the ball towards the box but it hit the Royal Wahingdoh defender’s hand. Isaac however was sent off for his aggression towards the referee while appealing for a penalty. With One man advantage, Royal Wahingdoh had good chances as the game opened up.

However, both the teams were not able to find the net and the score remained 0-0 at full time.

Shillong Lajong FC will play their next match against Nangkiew Irat SC on 31 st August.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: East Bengal take on Southern Samity in CFL

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

by Abhishek Shukla

The Gaurs set their sights on Rio de Janeiro for the pre-season training

BY FC GOA MEDIA 

Panaji August 2016: As part of FC Goa’s pre-season training and conditioning, the team will assemble at Zico’s football academy Zico 10 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to prepare for season 3 of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) under the close watch and guidance of head coach Zico.

Zico 10 is a brand, under which there are various academies and training centres across Brazil attached to the Flamengo legend Zico who is the head coach of FC Goa for the third consecutive season. FC Goa are scheduled to play pre-season friendlies with Brazilian clubs during the pre-season training in Rio.

Speaking of the ISL franchise’s target for the coming season, Zico has predicted a better season for the Gaurs, as the team is popularly referred to, in ISL 3.Said Zico, “We’ve made some good signings this year and we will continue to work on the squad while at the pre-season training in Rio, Brazil. It’s important for the team to come together to play and gel well and that’s what we will do in Brazil. We are building a strong team and we are aiming for the title”

Local superstars Romeo and Mandar Rao Dessai are elated to be part of the squad’s preparations in Rio de Janeiro.Said Romeo who has previously trained in Bazil with Atletico Paranaense, “I’m looking forward to train in Brazil again, I will do my best in the training session to learn and better my skills under Zico, it will be a great opportunity to play against the Brazilian teams and learn from them.

“I have heard that there are excellent training facilities and competitive teams to plays against.I’m looking forward to seeing first-hand the quality of play of the Brazilians teams as we have grown up knowing that Brazil is one of the power houses of football in the world. It will be great opportunity to learn and better my skills”, said Mandar.

FC Goa’s new signing; local lad Pratesh Shirodkar is visibly excited about the coming season. “Brazil is a land of football and training in Rio is like going to the holy land of football. My expectation of training at Rio is to evolve into a more skilful player and better my techniques”.

FC Goa’s right back Keenan Almeida is looking forward to heading to the South American country. “I’m excited about the fact that we are heading to Rio for our preseason. Brazil being the land of so many footballing legends adds to the thrill. I’m sure it’s going to be a good learning experience with the best of facilities and training under the guidance of Zico”

The squad will train in Rio de Janeiro until mid-September 2016, post which the Zico-managed team will be back in Goa for the final phase of training in Goa before the season starts. The city is also known for its sprawling favelas, its Carnival festival featuring parade floats, flamboyant costumes, samba costumes and most importantly the game of football.

Last season FC Goa conducted their pre-season at the Spanish Soccer Schools grounds located within the Dubai Sports City complex in the United Arab Emirate (UAE)..

 

by Abhishek Shukla

DSK Shivajians FC to debut in historic Durand Cup

25th August, 2016 – Pune, India – DSK Shivajians Football Club begins their 2016-17 season by making their debut in the historic 128th Durand Cup Football Tournament, being held in New Delhi from 28 th August 2016 to 11 th September 2016.

DSK Shivajians FC will be the second team from the city to ever participate in third oldest football tournament in the world and the oldest football tournament in India, tracing its first edition back to 1888. This year’s edition makes a comeback after a one-year of hiatus and will be played at two venues, the Ambedkar Stadium and Harbaksh Stadium, in New Delhi. The team will reach Delhi following their pre-season friendly against Bengaluru FC at the KSFA Stadium in Bengaluru.

The teams, led by new First Team Manager, Dave Rogers go into the tournament after a strenuous three-week pre-season which commenced in the first week of August 2016. Juan Quero returned to DSK Shivajians FC after impressive performances in the club’s debut I- League season. Irish youth international midfielder Shane McFaul also joined the ranks at the club midway through August. Sticking to his philosophy of promoting youth, Dave Rogers also provided opportunities to eleven players from the Liverpool FC International Academy – DSK Shivajians to be a part of the 20-member first team squad.

The Pune-based club will face Sporting Club de Goa in the opening match of the tournament on 28th August, 2016. The tournament, which will conclude on 11 th September 2016, will see twelve teams, divided into two groups of six, vie for the top honors. Top two teams in each group will qualify for the semi-finals.

The teams in fray include, six first timers, namely, Aizwal FC; Neroca FC; Gangtok Himalayan FC; Minerva AFC and Real Kashmir FC apart from DSFC; seasoned campaigners, Sporting Club De Goa and Dempo SC. Four teams from the Indian armed forces namely Army Green, Army Red, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy complete the lineup.

DSK Shivajians FC is placed in Group A along with the likes of Gangtok Himalayan, Army Green, Indian Navy, Sporting Club de Goa, and Minerva Academy. Group B comprises of last year’s I-League side Aizawl FC, Dempo FC, Real Kashmir FC, Neroca FC along with Indian Air Force and Army Red.

FIXTURES:

28 Aug: v Sporting Clube de Goa – 6.30pm – Ambedkar Stadium

31 Aug: v Gangtok Himalayan FC – 4.30pm – Ambedkar Stadium

2 Sept: v Indian Navy – 4.30pm – Ambedkar Stadium

4 Sept: v Minerva FC – 4.30pm – Ambedkar Stadium

5 Sept: v Army Green – 4.00pm – Harbaksh Stadium

9 Sept: Semi-Final 1 & 2 – 5.15pm/7.15pm

11 Sept: Final – 5.00pm

SQUAD LIST:

Goalkeepers:Rakshit Dagar, Sayak Barai

Defenders:Zohmingliana Ralte, Maan Singh, Mohd. SajidDhot, SairuatKima, Lalnunsiama

Midfielders: Biaklian Paite, Ameya Ranawade, Shane McFaul, Gagandeep Singh,

Vanlalremkima, Surchandra Singh Chandam, Hitova Ayemi, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, Rohit

Kumar

Forwards: Arif Shaikh, Juan Quero, Kim Song Yong, Lalawmpuia

by Abhishek Shukla

AtlĂŠtico de Kolkata reinforce the squad with Spanish Centre Forward Juan Belencoso

 

Kolkata, 25 th August, 2016: The champions of inaugural edition and the semi finalist of the second season of Indian Super League, AtlÊtico de Kolkata, announced today the signing of Spanish Centre Forward Juan Belencoso and added more fervor in their strong International line up of players.

Known for his hard working nature and skills, Belencoso is a fan favourite with his clinical finishes and played for Kitchee FC in Hong Kong. Belencoso also played for sides like Albacete BalompiĂŠ, UB Conquense, CD Lugo and CĂĄdiz CF. From 2002 to 2008, following a brief spell in Portugal, Juan Belencoso competed mainly in Segunda DivisiĂłn B, representing in that level Real JaĂŠn, MĂŠrida UD, CE L’Hospitalet and CD Baza. After the announcement of signing dynamic Indian players and retaining seven international recruits including marquee player for this season now the addition of Belencoso will add to the composition and strength of the team.

“On behalf of the team management we welcome Belencoso to Atlético de Kolkata which will help us in further developing the nucleus of the team this year. My association with his style of football goes back to the Kitchee FC days in Hong Kong. He had been one of the most consistent performers and had been nominated as AFC Foreign Player of the Year. With Postiga and now Belencoso I feel the need for the right strikers has been precisely addressed.” – José Molina, Head Coach, Atlético de Kolkata.

About Juan Belencoso

Born in Elche de la Sierra, Albacete, Belencoso started playing as a senior with amateurs Deportivo Rayo Cantabria. From 2002 to 2008, following a brief spell in Portugal, he competed mainly in Segunda DivisiĂłn B, representing in that level Real JaĂŠn, MĂŠrida UD, CE L’Hospitalet and CD Baza. Belencoso reached Segunda DivisiĂłn for the first time in the 2008–09 seasons, signing with local Castile-La Mancha club Albacete BalompiĂŠ. He made his debut in the competition on 31 August 2008, coming in as a late substitute in a 2–1 home win against Sevilla AtlĂŠtico, but only scored twice in the league over the course of two full seasons.

Belencoso returned to division three for the following years, playing with UB Conquense, CD Lugo and CĂĄdiz CF. He achieved promotion with the second team after scoring 14 goals, three in the playoffs. On 9 July 2013, Belencoso became coach Àlex GĂłmez’s first foreign signing of the new campaign as he joined Kitchee SC in Hong Kong. He became a regular scorer for Kitchee and fired them to the domestic treble last season including two goals in the FA Cup final against Eastern. In terms of continental football, in the AFC Cup 2014, his eleven goals helped propel Kitchee to the semi-final stage where they eventually succumbed. Belencoso models his style of football on Robert Lewandowski.

Head Coach:  JosÊ Molina
Squad as on 25.08.16
Domestic Players
1. Shilton Paul
2. Jewel Raja
3. Pritam Kotal
4. Debjit Majumder
5. Bikramjit Singh
6. Bidyananda Singh Ningthoujam
7. Kingshuk Debnath
8. Arnab Mandal
9. Bikash Jairu
10. Lalrindika Ralte (Dika)
11. Robert Lalthlanumna
12. Prabir Das
13. Keegan Pereira
14. Abinash Ruidas
Foreign Players
1. HĂŠlder Postiga (marquee)
2. Iain Hume
3. Sameegh Doutie
4. Ofentse Nato
5. Tiri
6. Stephen Pearson
7. Dani Mallo
8. Pablo JosĂŠ Gallardo Zurera
9. Borja FernĂĄndez
10. Javi Lara
11. Juan Belencoso

Atletico De Kolkata Press Release

by Abhishek Shukla

Lajong Youngsters Face Off Royal Wahingdoh FC

25 th August 2016: Defending champions, Shillong Lajong FC will face off the runners up of last year Royal Wahingdoh FC in what promises to be a thrilling encounter in the ongoing Gionee Shillong Premier League at the JN Stadium at 3:30PM on Friday.

Lajong youngsters are coming into this match after a 2-1 win over Rangdajied United FC. Samuel Lalmuanpuia and Redeem Tlang netted the two goals for Lajong in their opening match which was held on Monday.

Meanwhile, Royal Wahingdoh FC will head in tomorrow’s clash after a 2-0 win over Nangkiew Irat SC. Bowari Khongstia and Runsing Muinao provided the two goals for Wahingdoh.

The last time these two teams met in a Shillong Premier LEague encounter was on 21 st November 2015. It was the grand finale of the SPL where Lajong youngsters emerged victorious winning by 2-1 and thereby were crowned champions of the league. Interestingly, Royal Wahingdoh FC was unable to defeat Lajong in the first as well as the second round of SPL last year. Lajong won 1-0 in the first and 2-0 in the second round and will look to make it fourth win in a row on Friday.

On the other side, Royal Wahingdoh FC, will be aiming to get a better result this time around and put an end to Lajong’s winning streak over them in this new edition of the Gionee SPL.

Speaking to Shillong Lajong FC Head Coach, Thangboi Singto ahead of tomorrow’s big clash, he said, “It’s always a big game against Royal Wahingdoh. They will be motivated and want to better their record against us. Our boys must play as a cohesive unit to get positive result. They should score from chances they create and keep a clean sheet. But we have to improve in our attacking third and overall keep improving at all fronts.”

A tight contest awaits at the JN Stadium Shillong as both teams will look to register their second wins in the Gionee Shillong Premier League.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Suhair VP scores hat-trick as United SC tastes first victory

 

Barasat, 25th 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 8th minute as Eric scored from inside the box. The lead was doubled on the 33rd 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 Abhishek Shukla

FC Bardez suffered their first defeat in the GPL

Salgaocar FC handed their first loss to FC Bardez Goa as they beat them 0-2 in the Goa Professional League match played at Duler Stadium earlier today.

FC Bardez stared without their key players centre-back Mathew Gonsalves and skipper Peter Carvalho.

Salgoacar went into the break with a one goal cushion. Balwinder Singh and Liston Colaco scored in each half to confirm their victory. Both teams shared equal possession of the ball.

Salgaocar stated the game in good spirits as their first shot on goal was deflected by Rowilson Rodriguez. Few minutes later Linston Colaco again took the ball passed the FC Bardez defence but Luckily Rowilson cleared it. In the 13th minute Alesh Sawant tried his first shot on goal which went wide.

Richard Costa got a yellow card in the 24th minute for tackling Brian giving away a free-kick just 20 yards away from goal , Brian took the shot that went over the crossbar. The Slagoacar skipper almost put the ball in his own net on 28 minutes as Alesh crossed the ball in the Salgaocar box in turn Myron failed to connect.

Just two minutes later Gilbert was in action again this time at the oppsite end as a cornerkick was played short to him and he crossed it in the box. None of the FC Bardez defenders could clear the ball instead Balwinder Singh headed it home to make it 0-1 to the Greens.

Brian Mascarenhas almost doubled the score for the Greens in the 40th minute as his freekick was just a whisker away from goal. Jessel Carneiro priduced a superb cross in the 54th minute inside the Salgaocar box, Chatur Naik couldn’t finish it.
.
Four minutes later Alesh Sawant got the ball inside the box, but his shot was saved by the Salgaocar keeper. FC Bardez got a corner in the 71st minute, Alesh Sawant took it and crossed it in but Rowilson’s header was straight at the keeper.

Than Richard produced a lovely cross inside the Salgaocar box, but Myron couldn’t direct the header inside the goal. In the 79th minute Alesh found Lenstan who headed the ball inside the goal but was called offside by the Referee.

Two minutes later Salgaocar Doubled their score as Lston netted from a pass by Rosario Mendes.

Salgaocar Coach Norbet Gonsalves was happy with the result and said, “My boys played well. All we wanted is three points weather you play good game or not but the boys played well and they are going to improve.”

FC Bardez Press Release

by Abhishek Shukla

SPORTING DEMOLISH CHURCHILL BROS, CLIMB ON TOP OF THE TABLE

GOA: Sporting Clube De Goa demolished Churchill Bros SC 4 -0 in their opening match at Duler Football Stadium on Tuesday evening. Sporting completely outplayed the Red Machines in every department. The latter not even managing one single shot on target. Basant Rai of Churchill opened the score line for Sporting with an own goal in the 24th minute, while Cajetan Fernandes (41’) Glan Martins (63’) & Victorino Fernandes (74’) got on the score sheet for Sporting.

The initial quarter saw a fairly balanced play with both managing a handful of half chances at either ends. It was Sporting who went full throttle as their attack line consisting of Victorino, Glan & Quan Gomes toyed with the clueless Churchill defense. It was in the 24thminute that a heavy clearance from Loveday Eninnaya found Victorino at the front who pushed for the goal, however the Churchill defender Basant Rai made a dash clearing the ball into his own nets. After this it was all Sporting, Churchill Bros defenders found it hard to contain Victorino’s pace which allowed Quan and Glan to operate smoothly in the mid creating numerous chances. In the 41st minute Sporting won a free kick about 35 yards off the nets, Cajetan Fernandes stood up and slotted the ball into the top right corner giving the keeper no chance. The score stayed 2 – 0 in favour of Sporting at the half time.

Crossing over Sporting picked up where they left off. Gaffer Mateus Costa introduced Seriton Fernandes which proved to be effective as the winger combined with Victorino well while Churchill defense found it further hard to contain Sporting’s pace. In the 63rd minute Glan Martins latched on to a loose ball in a thickly populated box to beat his marker and drill in a powerful shot making it 3-0. Gaffer Costa quickly got Martins out and introduced Ganesh Thakur who set up Victorino for a photo finish serving the ball right into the slot for the latter to make it 4 -0 in the 74th minute. The final quarter saw Sporting seal off the defense giving very little room for Churchill Bros forwards to operate. With this win Sporting climb on top of the Goa Pro League table with a healthy goal difference.

A jubilant Mateus Costa said “We needed this kind of a start, it’s good to see the boys play with confidence. We stuck to what we do in training and this is exactly the kind of result we get when that happens.”

He further said “Now we travel for the Durand Cup and we are confident we can continue this form there as well.”

SCG Press Release

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: FC GOA CONFIRMS THE TWIN SIGNINGS OF REINALDO AND SUBHASHISH ROY FOR HERO ISL 3.

Panaji, 23 rd August 2016: FC GOA has confirmed the signings of Brazilian forward Reinaldo Da Cruz Oliveira

and goalkeeper Subhashish Roy Chowdhury. The Brazilian has re-signed with the club on the back of a

successful season where he topped the scoring charts by notching up seven goals during the campaign. His

outstanding moment of the season came when he scored a brilliant hat trick against Kerala Blasters in a 5-1

win. The 37-year- old joins the likes of Robin Singh in attack and will be expected to lead the charge again for

the Goan club, for whom he made 10 appearances last season.

Said Reinaldo, “I’m very happy to continue this journey with FC Goa. Last season, we had a very good campaign

and fell marginally short. We want to take that extra step forward this year and go all the way. With Zico

coming back, there is a familiarity to the setup once again and a certain comfort level with the rest of the team.

The Goan crowds were a big influence on us last year and we are relying on the same continued support this

season to help us achieve us goals. I’m looking forward to an intense pre-season campaign to get us ready for

when the ball starts rolling.”

Subhashish Roy Chowdhury is a new signing, having previously plied his trade with Atletico De Kolkata in the

past two seasons of the Hero ISL. He was part of the squad that were crowned champions in the inaugural

edition and was also involved in the second season before an injury curtailed his season. He brings a wealth of

experience with him and is expected to provide local boy Laxmikanth Kattimani with stiff competition for a

place in between the sticks. The 29-year- old has been capped four times by the national team and is looking to

use this season as a platform to regain his place.

A spokesperson for FC Goa said, “We are pleased to retain Reinaldo. Zico was impressed with his

performances on the pitch last year and asked that he come back. Subhashish is also a great addition to the

squad. We wanted to get a proven goalkeeper in and that’s what we’ve got. We are happy with the

composition of the squad so far and have some further signings to come.”

FC GOA PRESS RELEASE

by Abhishek Shukla

Bengaluru sign promising nineteen-year-old Gursimrat

Vishal Kumar, Darren Caldeira Return To Blues’ Fold On Short-Term Deals

Bengaluru: Staying true to its philosophy of promoting and honing young talent, Bengaluru FC have signed promising defender Gursimrat Singh (19) on a one-year deal, the club announced Tuesday. The I-League champions also added to the squad by signing familiar faces in defender Vishal Kumar and midfielder Darren Caldeira on short-term deals.

A regular in the India under-19 squad between 2014-15, Gursimrat spent five years at the Chandigarh Football Academy before being drafted into the AIFF Regional Academy in Navi Mumbai from where he went on to represent the country. He was also part of the AIFF squad that won the Under-19 I-League in 2015. “I am thrilled that I have signed my first professional contract with the best club in India. I am looking forward to learning and growing every day. This is a big chance for me early in my career and I am focused on making the most of it,” said Singh, who hails from Ludhiana.

Gursimrat was part of the SAFF Cup-winning India side of 2015 and also represented the country in the Under-19 AFC Championship in Palestine in the same year.

Caldeira, a Bengaluru player from 2013-2015, makes a return to the Blues after spending last season with Mumbai FC. Meanwhile local lad Vishal penned an extended deal after his three-year contract with the Blues ran out earlier in May.

Bengaluru head coach Albert Roca said the side could do with the new additions given the big AFC Cup game is less than a month away. “The club’s philosophy is to give young talent a stage and I believe that’s exactly what Gursimrat has got. He is talented, works hard and wants to keep improving which is a good sign for anyone taking the professional path. It’s also good to have Vishal and Darren back with the team. They have been with the club before but are working hard to bring value add to the squad which is what we need ahead of the AFC Cup tie,” he said.

BFC PRESS RELEASE

by Abhishek Shukla

Lajong starts Shillong Premier League campaign with win over Rangdajied

 

SHILLONG: The Defending Champions, Shillong Lajong FC successfully registered a win in their opening match of the Shillong Premier League. They won by a score line of 2-1 against Rangdajied United FC.

For today’s game, Lajong head coach Thangboi Singto started with goalkeeper, Neithovile, Nim Dorjee, Sandeep Singh, Joe Zoherliana, Pritam Kumar, Hardy Nongbri, Joseph Lalfakzuala, Redeem Tlang, Bipin Singh, Samuel Lalmuanpuia and Milan Basumatary.

On their first match of the new Gionee SPL season, Lajong youngsters were looking very sharp and confident on the field after kick off. There were a lot of positive vibes within the team and the players were seen displaying a good passing game. Their opponents for the day, another strong contender in the league, Rangdajied United FC, also had several good moments in the match. Both teams undoubtedly, displayed some quality football in front of the football loving spectators of Shillong.

Samuel Lalmuanpuia provided the first goal for Lajong. He scored from a free kick in the 17th minute. In the 34th minute of the game, Hardy Nongbri took a shot from 25 yards out but it went a few inches wide off the far right post.

The first half ended with Lajong leading 1-0 against Rangdajied.

As the second half started, Lajong were seen playing the ball more upfront as they were keen in scoring more goals. Their plan for the day seemed to be working pretty well as Redeem Tlang netted a long range shot, from 25 yards out in the 55th minute and Lajong were leading 2-0.

This added a lot of pressure on Rangdajied and the players were committing some silly mistakes to miss a few chances in front of goal. However, as the game crossed the one hour mark, the Rangdajied players started to build their game better and were combining very well with each other.

In the 66th minute, Rangdajied were awarded a free kick and their star player came very close in netting their first goal but his shot lacked accuracy and hit the bar instead.

Finally in the 72nd minute of the game, Khwetelhi Thopi, scored for Rangdajied and helped reduce the deficit.

As the game was approaching its final few minutes, Rangdajied was pressing hard to find the equaliser but the Lajong defence remained resolute till the end, to ensure they take three full points from their first game.

At full time the score line was 2-1 in favour of the Reds. They will play their next match against Royal Wahingdoh FC on the 26th August at the JN Stadium

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Keeper Sankar Roy’s heroics allows Peerless to hold Mohun Bagan

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.

“Mohan Bagan narrowly escaped us. Today we got our strategies right but we were just unlucky. I give all the credit to my players, they really worked hard and played to instructions.” said Peerless coach Fuja Tope.

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.
DSC_0085

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 Abhishek Shukla

Sporting starts their title defense in Goa Pro League against Churchill

 

GOA: Reigning Champions Sporting Clube de Goa open their Goa Pro League title defense against the South Goa giants Churchill Brothers at Duler Stadium, Mapusa on Tuesday. The two already played each other in the Goa Police Cup 2016 group stages in which Sporting got better of the Red Machines. However Churchill Bros will remember their performance in the opening match of the previous edition of Goa Pro League where they managed to upset the Flaming Oranje.

Speaking about preparations for the match Sporting Gaffer Mateus Costa said. “Tomorrow will be a good game for all of us; it won’t be easy because Churchill Bros are a strong team with some good players. The win in our previous encounter will definitely give some additional confidence to our boys.”

But Costa also stressed on the point that this is completely a new start “Well at the back of our minds we do know we have beaten them but this is a new day and a new start. What happened was good but we are not relaxed, we will give our best on the pitch tomorrow.”

He further added “We need to send the right message, the first few matches are always very important. A good start will set the momentum right. We want to start on a positive note and go home with 3 points.”

He also mentioned “Tomorrows match is important because we leave for Durand Cup after this round so a win here can be a good moral boost.”

Speaking about the previous season Costa mentioned “We remember how things went south last time around; we do not want to repeat those mistakes. We faltered in maintaining our focus and that’s what cost us the first two matches last time. We will ensure that doesn’t happen now.”

Speaking about the current squad at disposal Costa said “At Sporting we try to improve all our players – it’s not important if he is the best player, young player or any other. What is important to us is he is our player and we will make sure to bring out the best in him.”

As this will be the first heavy weight clash of Goa Pro League this season one can expect an exciting encounter on the cards.

by Abhishek Shukla

Lajong to open Shillong Premier League campaign against Rangdajied

 

Shillong: A new season of Meghalaya’s top football competition has begun with a new league sponsor coming in – Gionee Mobiles. Three matches have already been played, and the competition this year has become tougher with each team aiming to win the Shillong Premier League.

Defending Champions, Shillong Lajong FC who bagged the top honours in 2014 and 2015 will look to grab their third when they begin their SPL campaign against Rangdajied United FC on 22nd August at the JN Stadium at 3:30pm.

Just like previous seasons, Lajong will field a young squad with no foreign players in the team. Very recently, the team played the Independence Cup in Aizawl as part of their pre-season preparatory camp. They topped Group B and remained undefeated to reach the semifinals stage but lost to Aizawl FC 3-2 in the extra time.

Speaking to head coach, Thanhboi Singto, about the first match, he said, “It will be a good test for the young team. This year we have registered ten U 18 players in the 30 member squad.

There is talent in the very youthful squad. We need to improve and develop in every game. This will be a great opportunity for some of the youngsters.”

He further said, “The trip to Aizawl gave us a chance to build on combinations and also to give us match time.

It will be tougher this season as we will not have Vishal, Rupert and Sana who were our mainstay last year when we won the League. But we will approach the League with confidence and give our best as we have always done.”

An interesting encounter awaits the football spectators of Shillong on Monday as the defending champions of the Gionee Shillong Premier League will lock horns with another tough contender in the league, Rangdajied United FC. Both teams will be eager to grab first wins from this crucial encounter.

 

The Team:

  1. Phurba Tempa Lachenpa (GK)
  2. Frolicson Dkhar (GK)
  3. Neithovilie Chalieu (GK)
  4. Kenstar Kharshong
  5. Nim Dorjee Tamang
  6. Sandeep Singh
  7. Pritram Kumar Singh
  8. Meban K Wahlang
  9. Allen Lyngdoh Nongbri
  10. Jacob Lalrawngbawla
  11. Sheen Stevenson Sohktung
  12. Joseph Lalfakzuala
  13. Milan Basumatary
  14. Khlainbor Khongsit
  15. Loyangamba
  16. Alen Deory
  17. Aiban Kupar Dohling
  18. Tridev Boro
  19. Novin Gurung
  20. Kagalay. Anal
  21. Joe Zoherliana
  22. Sana Singh
  23. Hardy Cliff Nongbri
  24. Donboklang Lyngdoh
  25. Lalrammuana
  26. Isaac Vanlalsawma
  27. Redeem Tlang
  28. Bipin Singh
  29. Samuela Lalmuanpuia
by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Calum Angus on target as East Bengal beat Tollygunge Agragami

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.

by Abhishek Shukla

CFL: Mohun Bagan seek redemption against Peerless

By Debabrata Majmder

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan seek redemption when they face Peerless Sports Club in an CFL Premier Division – A encounter at Mohun Bagan Ground on Monday.

Having been defeated Mohun Bagan 2-0 at a pre-season friendly earlier in the season, Peerless will fancy their chances heading into the game while The Mariners looks to set the record straight.

Going into the game Mohun Bagan, who are currently at second spot on 12 points from 4 outings, will be looking for all three points as a positive result will take them ahead of East Bengal to the summit on goal difference, whereas Peerless, who are on fourth position with 7 points, will be eager to upset the mighty Mohun Bagan to give themselves a chance to make a top three finish.

Mohun Bagan won their first two games of the league rather convincingly 5-1 and 4-0 against Aryan Club and George Telegraph respectively but their performance level dipped in next two games against Southern Samity and Bhawanipore Club. Although, Mohun Bagan registered a 1-0 victory in both but those were a bit unconvincing than the first two.

“The match is an important one for us. Even though we have won all our previous matches but every match is a new challenge and Peerless will be a tough opponent,” Mohun Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakrabarty said on the eve of the clash.

On the team news front, Bagan coach is expected to shuffle his starting line-up as Afghan defender Zohib Islam Amiri could make his first start of the season replacing Tonmoy Ghosh and skipper Raju Gaikwad is likely to switch his position with the right-back. While the newest foreign acquisition Daniel Bidemi will start on the bench.

Peerless, on the other hand, started their campaign with a goaless 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 in their last match.

Coach Fuja Tope will be relying heavily on the strike pair of Rahim Nabi and Ghanefo Kromah to penetrate the Bagan defense, while the likes of Argha Chakraborty, Sukhwinder Singh, Arijit Bagui and Irfan Khan would form the spine of the team with Nigerian Ugochukwu Godswill leading the defense line.

“Peerless is a very good side and they have some good players like Nabi, Argha and Sukhwinder with a very experienced coach in Fuja Tope but I have full faith on our team and I am hopeful for a positive result tomorrow,” coach Sankarlal added.

For the record, last time when these two faced off in a competitive match it was in the 2013/14 CFL Premier Division which eneded in a 2-2 stalemate at Saltlake Stadium.

by Abhishek Shukla

Guwahati to host ISL 2016 Grand Opening Ceremony

 

Mumbai: Football Sports Development Ltd, the promoters of Hero Indian Super League have awarded Guwahati, Assam the coveted rights to host the opening ceremony and the season opener match of Hero ISL 2016.

The North East region of India haveestablished itself as the emerging football powerhouse in the country. By awarding Guwahati the rights to host ISL 2016 opening ceremony, Football Sports Development wishes to celebrate North East’s contribution to the development of Indian football and recognise the potential it has in shaping the future of the beautiful game in the country.

Indira Gandhi Stadium, Sarusajai, with a capacity of 30,000 will be the hub of Indian and global fans on 1st October 2016 as the ISL teams will join owners, celebrities and performers to provide North East a memorable visual extravaganza at the Opening Ceremony.

The host club NorthEast United FC – aptly representing the eight states of North East – led by new coach Nelo ‘The Professor’ Vingada will begin the season opening match against Steve Coppell’s Kerala Blasters FC in the ISL 2016 opener.