I-League 2018-19: 3 reasons why East Bengal won against Mohun Bagan to make ‘Derby Double’

Justin and Santos in joyous mood after the match
Justin and Santos in joyous mood after the match

#2 Wasteful defending from Mohun Bagan

Kingsley (right) had a horrible outing against East Bengal
Kingsley (right) had a horrible outing against East Bengal

From the very first minute, the communication gap in the Mohun Bagan defence was clearly visible. There was very little connection between two central defenders Eze Kingsley and Kim Kima. Both of East Bengal’s goals came from defensive lapses and captain Kingsley, who was sent off in the first leg of this fixture, was clearly responsible on both occasions.

During the first goal, the green and maroon defence was left wide open. Kassim Aidara, who played brilliantly throughout the match, found Jobby Justin on the right side. Kinglsey, who was marking Joby, completely failed to mark his move. Justin easily spotted Jaime Santos in a favourable position and passed the ball to him. Santos took a step before slotting the ball past Shilton Paul.

East Bengal got their very first corner in the 75th minute. Mohun Bagan were wrong footed this time too. Justin, who was standing on the far post, quickly moved to the near post, leaving Kingsley bamboozled again.

Mohun Bagan also failed to take control of the midfield. Omar Elhusseint was off colour in the whole match and Yuta Kinowaki’s absence hurt them so much in the match.

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Edited by Kingshuk Kusari