Imphal, December 9, 2019: Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal is all set to host the clash between Neroca FC and Quess East Bengal on December 10, 2019 (Tuesday). Quess East Bengal have travelled all the way from Ludhiana for this all-important clash between the East and the Northeast.
The match will be broadcast LIVE on DSPORT and Kolkata TV from 2:00 PM IST.
Neroca FC will be coming on the back of a win against Aizawl FC in a hard-fought match, where they plundered their first win with the help of a stellar performance from their custodian Marvin Devon Phillip who also happens to be their skipper.
Though Aizawl FC dominated the possession, Neroca’s win will give them the much-needed confidence going into the clash against Quess East Bengal and an impetus for the home crowd to throng the stadium in large numbers.
Speaking before the match Neroca FC, Head Coach, Gift Rai Khan said, “I am very happy for the three points that we have got against Aizawl FC, but it’s important to note that the performance wasn’t up to the mark. We have been losing a lot of ball and a lot of chances which can prove costly against a stronger opponent.”
Speaking about Quess East Bengal, he said, “We know that Quess East Bengal is a good team but we will play at home. We will have to reduce our mistakes and make sure that we stand strong and compact against the away team’s attack.” He further resonated confidence in his team saying, “The team knows their strengths and weaknesses. We have prepared both mentally and physically for the same.”
On the other hand, the Red and Golds will be disappointed yet hopeful. They have drawn the first two matches but Quess East Bengal, gaffer-Alejandro Menéndez will be hopeful with the number of chances the team has created in both the matches. Unfortunately, the chances created have not resulted in as many goals, which may be weighing on the team going into the Neroca encounter.
“I would be worried if the team doesn’t create the chances to score but creating the chances in both the games is a sign that the team combination is working well. Though, we would have liked if we had scored more goals but nonetheless we did score in every match. So, we are closer to scoring more goals and it is a positive sign,” said Quess East Bengal, Head Coach, Alejandro Menéndez.
Speaking about their opponents’ coach added, “We know how they play and their style is pretty similar to that of Real Kashmir. So, we know what we are up against. We have to play in our style and be confident about what we do. Our defenders are playing really well and we need to have confidence in our team. I believe we are all set for the next game.”