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Shillong Lajong FC ready to take on United SC

Eelco Schatorrie (Coach, United SC) and Thangboi Singto (Coach, Shillong Lajong FC)

Eelco Schatorrie (Coach, United SC) and Thangboi Singto (Coach, Shillong Lajong FC)

Shillong Lajong FC take on United SC in the 5th Round of the I-League at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong on Saturday at 16.30 IST. Both sides are looking to get back on winning terms, Lajong after losing two home games in a row and United SC after a loss and a draw away from home.

During the pre-match press conference held here in Shillong, Eelco Schatorrie, United SC coach said that Lajong will be “unpredictable” as they are desperate for their first win at home. He also added, “The squad is not in perfect condition”. They will also be without Tapan Maity and Lalkamal Bhowmick who are sidelined by injuries while Mohammad Rafique is out in office team duties. Schatorrie will not be in the dugout himself as he is serving a two match ban but he is “hoping” for three points.

Shillong Lajong coach, Thangboi Singto said, “We are definitely looking for a win and our team will give 100% in the field.” The coach also added that the team has been having problems in “converting the chances” but he is hoping that his side converts those chances in tomorrow’s clash against the Kolkatta side. Lajong have less injury problems and will have the whole squad to chose from except for full back C. Lallawmzuala who is out with an ankle injury.

In closing statements, Eelco Schatorrie said that he is happy to be in Shillong and the “temperature is good”. He also said that he looks to entertain the crowd with his team’s football and hopes that the crowd will turn out in great numbers as they usually do. Rahul Dsouza, who sent him to the stands in the match against Begaluru FC will be the match official for tomorrow’s game and Schatorrie hopes the official “keeps it professional”.

United Sports Club is in 4th position in the table with 7 points while Shillong Lajong is in 8th position with 4 points. The league is still at its nascent stage but both teams will look for three more points to add to their kitty and put pressure on the league leaders.