I-League: Shillong Lajong host continental high fliers East Bengal

Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will see tomorrow afternoon hosts Shillong Lajong FC taking on Kolkata giants East Bengal Club at 3.30pm in what should be a thrilling round four encounter of the 2013/14 I-League.

At the pre-match press conference that was held in the city on Tuesday, Shillong Lajong FC Coach Thangboi Singto stressed that his team has had a good start to the season considering they drew against Pune FC, who finished second last season.

“Against Sporting Clube (de Goa) we created many chances but failed to convert. So I feel it’s just a matter of converting those chances and opportunities. East Bengal has got a good squad and we are looking forward for a good game.”

He also said that midfielder Taisuke Matsugae is doubtful but a final call will be taken only tomorrow morning.

The Reds have a good record against East Bengal Club at home and will be seeking to continue their unbeaten streak tomorrow as well.

Marcos Falopa, who is making his I-League debut as East Bengal coach, said, “It will be an interesting game and I have heard so much about the good atmosphere and crowd at the J.N. Stadium. I expect a good match tomorrow.”

“The players are very tired following their AFC campaign but we have some new good players with us in the squad and we will try to balance it.”

He concluded by saying, “In football there are three important things, win, lose and draw, and we should try to win tomorrow.”

Three vital points are up for grabs for both sides and an electrifying encounter at the JN Stadium is on the cards as Shillong Lajong FC faces off against East Bengal Club.