Kolkata: It is not for the first time in many years that East Bengal stand with a realistic chance to win their maiden I-League title. But what makes it all the more interesting this season is that the Red and Golds have continued their good form throughout the campaign, other than few blips in between.
They have lost just thrice this year, two came against Bagan in the Kolkata derby and one in the last fixture against Gokulam. But that all their defeats came in times when they needed a win, have left them lingering in the third position on 26 points after 15 games.
On Saturday at the Viveknanda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, East Bengal face Chennai City in their penultimate home match. The Red and Golds are in a do-or-die situation, but so are rivals Chennai City.
While Jamil’s boys chase the coveted title that has eluded them for 15 years, V Soundarajan continues to battle relegation and that has made the match a must-win for both the teams.
Khalid Jamil will however be aware of Chennai’s threat, one that sent Bagan coach Sanjoy Sen packing home and Soundarajan won’t mind doing the same to the former Aizawl man.
“It will be a great season for us and the club if we manage to beat both Kolkata clubs away,” said Soundarajan. His side are looking for nothing less than a win.
But East Bengal have been deal with a blow after captain Arnab Mondal saw red in their 1-2 loss to Gokulam. Defender Gurwinder Singh is likely to take his place.
Churchill take on Gokulam Kerala
Just as interesting is the battle in the lower half as it in the top end. Churchill Brothers take on a resurgent Gokulam Kerala in a battle to survive at the Tilak Maidan here on Saturday.
Gokulam have had a fairy-tale run late into the campaign, a period during which they have defeated Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Minerva Punjab. The league debutants are seventh with 19 points from 15 games and have no fear of being relegated.
It is however the opposite for Churchill, who seemed to be on a similar run at the start of 2018, winning five in seven matches, but have since then lost thrice in as many games. They are ninth on the table with 16 points from 15 matches and are in a must-win situation.