I-League Media Team

Pune: DSK Shivajians manager Dave Rogers believes his team’s last outing, a 5-0 home victory against Mumbai FC was long overdue. “We deserved that result. I think the result speaks volumes of the effort my players and staff have put over this season. We played five away games before that one, which quite frankly is exhausting. It was like a pan-India tour. However, it’s part of the game, despite the difficulty. It’s exciting and we’re relieved that we’re back home to play this match against Shillong.”

DSK Shivajians and Shillong Lajong have the youngest outfits in the I-League. “My boys have been outstanding. Every single match they’ve given it all, we conceded some late goals, and it has been heartbreaking for them. However, every single time, they’ve practised hard and I can’t ask them for more. The results are not important for me, what really matters is the development and learning. The purpose of fielding and developing a young squad is to improve Indian football and give the National manager a hotbed of youngsters to choose from, increasing the talent pool”. added Dave Rogers.

Shillong Lajong Head coach Thangboi Singto was equally satisfied with his squad’s progress.

“The philosophy is the same. Yes, both our teams have the maximum number of youngsters. Our management has always promoted the local players, and frankly, they’re on fire at the moment. I think they’ve done well, It’ll be hot and spicy tomorrow I believe. We’ve planned well, and yes the weather is challenging, it’ll be tough.”

Dave Rogers was also vocal about the same fact, “His philosophy is the same as mine. I’m a fan of what he’s accomplished at Lajong, and it bodes well for their future.”

Both teams are on a mixed run of form at the moment, Shillong having played fewer games.

The match is scheduled at 07:00 PM hrs. and it’ll be telecast on Ten 2.