Kolkata: Virtually out of the title race after another disappointing draw against Chennai City in their previous encounter, former I-League champions Mohun Bagan will look to salvage some pride when they take on laggards Gokulam FC at the Viveknanda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium here on Monday.
That their season hasn’t gone swimmingly well is evident in their points tally where despite losing just twice in 13 matches, they still remain fourth with 21 points. Gokulam after playing a match less are on 10 points and on the brink of relegation.
The Mariners are still unbeaten on the road but have won just twice in five matches, with their recent result being a goalless draw against Chennai City, whose one of only two wins came against the Mariners over a month ago.
“Chennai match is past now. This is our last home match and we want to win it. The win at home will boost our confidence and shall set the tone for the remaining of the matches,” said head coach Sankarlal Chakraborty who interestingly was elevated into this position from an assistant after Bagan’s earlier shock defeat to Chennai under Sanjoy Sen.
Goalkeeper Shilton Paul also echoed a similar tone when he said, “Our focus on the remaining five matches. Our performance at home this season has not been good but that is past now.”
Such unravelling has been their season that all Bagan has left to do is aim for a win in the next match. “Our only objective will be to secure three points,” added goalkeeper Paul now that the title is well out of their reach.
Gokulam on the other hand, face a daunting task of beating the mighty opponents after a narrow loss to Neroca.
“Mohun Bagan are a very strong side and to beat them at home will be an uphill task,” said coach Bino George. “These boys are for the first time playing in the I-League. It’s such a big tournament. Each match we are improving. We are looking forward to play against Mohun Bagan.”
The Malabarians had gained some momentum with consecutive victories over Chennai City and Shillong Lajong but the 0-1 defeat to Neroca means they still are in danger of being relegated.