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After three straight losses, East Bengal will look to give their best when they face Gokulam Kerala FC on Saturday evening before the all-important Kolkata Derby.
The Red and Golds are enduring difficult times as their performance had gone from bad to worst. After winning the first two matches, they were termed as the contenders for the title. But three back to back losses put them in a spot to bother.
This is, in fact, the first time after 2012 that East Bengal lost three straight matches in I-League. Though the race for the title is not over, East Bengal will have to pull off all sorts to make them a contender again.
The Kolkata-based club are leaving no stone unturned. Players are sweating it on the field, working hard, keeping concentration. But it seems the mentality that could win you a game is missing when they take an opposition.
The game against Mohun Bagan will be crucial for East Bengal. Not only it will help them to make progress in the I-League table but will earn the trust of their supporters who never want to lose against their arch-rivals.
Before that, the first and foremost task for them is a win against Gokulam. Let us look at the reasons why a win could set the tune for East Bengal before Kolkata Derby:
#3 A win will boost the confidence
Apart from the first two matches, East Bengal looked like a depleted side who forgot how to win a game. Even when they were trailing, there was no urge from the players to give more.
In short, they looked like a team who are well short of confidence. It was a completely embarrassing moment for a team who are fighting for the title.
Against Minerva, the case was more exposed. Though the coach said they played well, the same was not reflected on the pitch.
Gokulam match is the best opportunity for them to regain their confidence ahead of their biggest match of the season.
The Malabarians too are struggling to get their feet with a new side and it is the best time to attack them in full force and get all the three points.
#2 An opportunity to check the ability of the players
East Bengal have brought a Spanish flavour in their side this time with the recruitment of players and the coach. They were expected to deliver the result from the beginning.
But the poor performances have earned them criticisms. Some players have not performed to their ability, which often went against the team’s target.
One of them is Costa Rican world cupper, Johnny Acosta. He was not tasted that much in the first two matches. But against tough teams like Chennai City, his deficiencies were exposed. His mistake led to a couple of goals.
East Bengal coach Alejandro Menendez though tried to defend the player. “Anybody can have a bad match on any day.
We are not worried about that. The way he is working on the field is an example for all and I am sure he will improve in the coming days,” Alejandro said at the pre-match press conference.
But the gaffer hinted some changes in the starting line-up against Gokulam. In that case, Acosta may have to sit on the bench and Salam Ranjan Singh will be introduced in his place. “Honestly, we made mistakes in some positions and need fresh players. So may change some players against Gokulam,” the coach conceded.
New midfielder Jaime Santos, who arrived on the city a couple of days ago, may also be introduced later in the second half to give him some game time.
It is the last opportunity for the coach to taste his players before the big match and if someone among them plays well, it will only benefit the team.
#1 Three points will ensure both teams start the Derby on the same position
East Bengal is sitting on the eighth position on the table with six points from five matches. Mohun Bagan is just above them with nine points from six encounters.
A win against Gokulam will see East Bengal equal with their arch-rivals and that will be a big advantage for the team.
The sudden departure of Antonio German made life tougher for Gokulam. In a cryptic Instagram post, the former Kerala Blasters FC player said he was not happy with the team.
When asked about the reason, Gokulam coach Bino George said,
“Antonio German was very disappointed. Two days ago he and Shibinraj (Kunniyil) interacted with the fans suddenly he said I am not enjoying my time. I Spoke to him recently and he kept saying that his mother is not well, his family is in problem. So think he was disappointed that’s why quit the club. It was his personal decision and not something related to the club. But I have players and I will not miss him.”
He may say so but his experience and ability in front of the goalmouth will be sorely missed by Gokulam.
East Bengal should cash in on the opportunity and will hope that the defenders keep their shape this time and not concede easy goals.
