Mohammedan Sporting Club training session. (Photo courtesy: Mohammedan Sporting Club)
Mohammedan Sporting Club square off with Bhawanipore FC on Wednesday afternoon aiming for a favourable result to strengthen and further their hopes as contenders to the Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ title.
Both teams are currently level on 10 points from 6 matches and a win for either would see them draw level with log leaders Peerless SC (13 points).
Mohammedan SC coach Saheed Ramon has expressed confidence in his side ahead of the 2:30 PM kick-off at Mohammedan Sporting Ground.
“It is always about continuously improving. The players are responding positively,” comments Ramon, while watching Black Panthers’ pre-match practice session on Tuesday morning. “There is a high spirit and high level of teamwork. The confidence has picked up tremendously as well. We are developing into a team that will have every member contributing.”
Mohammedan SC played well in very trying conditions against Kalighat MS in their previous match to secure their second win of the campaign. The Black Panthers, under Ramon, have been impressive in each of their matches so far, with excellent structure and attacking prowess showing off some real talent, however Ramon is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
“After a win we immediately switch back to basics. We must remain humble and keep our feet on the ground.” the Nigerian mentor insists.
“We respect our opponents and Bhawanipore won’t be an exception,” the gaffer comments about tomorrow’s opponent. “They play a possession game and they hold the ball well. The key to the match will be the midfield, we need to win the ball in those areas.”
“We need to push and take it one game at the time. We try to collect maximum points in every game. The match against Bhawanipore is key, as are all matches, and we need to focus. We will definitely pull out all stops to win this one. We want to stay within touching distance of the log leaders. I hope that our supporters will come in big numbers to give us an added element in the stands.” added Ramon.
Nonetheless, Mohammedan SC is paying the price for a busy fixture list since the Durand Cup as their injury problems continue to mount.
With Hira Mondal and Sheikh Azaruddin still on the road to recovery, the Black Panthers are also dealing with knocks to Priyant Singh and Arijit Singh. The injury woes for Mohammedan SC further accelerated when Mohammed Amirul picked up a knee problem during training session and is being monitored now.
Though Ramon has stated that the absence of so many regular starters is a major loss for his side but ensures that rest of the team will soldier on and do the business against Bhawanipore.
Looking ahead Ramon knows Bhawanipore’s style of play and their opposing physicality can cause problems for his side, however he is hopeful the players will successfully adopt the tactical approach he wants to see implemented.
(Mohammedan Sporting Club)