Lajong boys are ready to face Bagan

After their convincing victory over Air India, the Lajong FC boys are ready to take on Mohun Bagan.

On the eve of the match between Shilong Lajong FC and Mohun Bagan, IndianFootball.com talked to Stanley Rozario, coach, Shilong Lajong FC.

Stanley touch based on the following points:

Confidence factor in this match

• Our boys had a big win at home against Air India and we are ready to face Bagan.
• But all said Mohun bagan is after all Mohun bagan!
• Even though they are not getting the service of Barretto, yet they are a formidable side with competent bench strength.
• Also, their recent win at the Kolkata derby has boosted their morale.

High altitude home advantage

• I do not agree on the high-altitude thing, a match is a match, and the professional players have to perform.
• Bagan consists of many players from NorthEast. Surkumar Singh, James Singh, Tomba Singh, and Genius Zenith are all experienced in playing in high altitude condition.
• Moreover, the weather here is chilly unlike the any other I-League venues, and the players will be comfortable playing in such soothing condition.

Chief custodian Gumpe Rime’s absence

• Gumpe absense won’t deter much, our other goalies are also good.
• Marus Basutarari is an experience keeper and so is R Lalthuammawia, who has already played against Sporting Club de Goa in the I-League.
• Will take the decision on fielding either of these two keepers tomorrow, just before the match.

Mission to visit Kolkata to see Mohun Bagan’s game (at the derby match against East Bengal on Sunday, October 25

• Was there as a spectator (winks)!
• I always do that, like to take notes on the opposition. Have even done that before the Air India match (East Bengal - Air India match was played at Kolkata).
  
• I’ve shared my observation with the team and accordingly the team has worked on it.
• You can say that the planning part is done it is up to how the players execute in the field. (laughs)