I-League 2015/16 - Preview: Battle on the cards as Bengaluru face Mumbai

ByPress Release, SportsCafe Editor

04/01/2016

Bengaluru FC will look to switch gears as their I-League title charge enters the home stretch with a vital game against Mumbai FC at the Kanteerava Stadium, in Bengaluru, on Saturday. Three points adrift of leaders Mohun Bagan and with a game in hand, Bengaluru need a win to stay in touch.

In news that has bolstered the mood in the camp and stands alike, midfielder Eugeneson Lyngdoh marks his return a little after two months since fracturing his fibula, incidentally against Mumbai FC at the Cooperage. But it needs to be seen whether Westwood will hand the No.14 a start. “Eugene is back to full fitness. We’re going to assess him today and see where he is mentally. Physically he’s right there,” said Westwood.

Skipper Sunil Chhetri however, is more of a doubtful starter, not having completely recovered from a groin strain that kept him out of the two World Cup qualifiers against Iran and Turkmenistan. “Sunil had an issue before he went for the camp which is why he didn’t play for India. We will do what is best for his long-term future and will be guided by how he feels.”

Bengaluru are yet to beat Mumbai in five meetings in the League but Westwood brushed aside the fact that there was any profound logic behind the string of results. “There is no problem, just a bit of co-incidence really. Thinking back to one of our early games, we played well but conceded late. We really dominate possession when we play against them but they make themselves hard to break down. They are good at stifling games. Tomorrow, we just need to be confident, have faith in our abilities and take the fight to them,” he said.

Westwood urged the Blues faithful to turn up in numbers, get behind the team but ensure that the proverbial line is not crossed. “It will be great if the fans turn up in numbers, shout as loud as they can and cook up a hostile atmosphere but at the same time behave themselves. It is all good if it stays in the stands and I believe that the lads will come up with a display that gives our fans something to shout about,” he said.

The game kicks-off at 7.05 pmtomorrow and will be telecast live on Ten Action.

Report Courtesy: Bengaluru FC Media