East Bengal to clash with Churchill Brothers in NFL tomorrow

Margao, Apr 10 (UNI) Former champions East Bengal will seek to collect full points, as victory will keep them in the hunt for top placing when they lock horns against spirited Churchill Brothers in the 2nd leg of the ONGC National Football League championship match to be played here tomorrow.

Two teams seems to be equally balanced as both played out a 2-2 draw in the first leg tie.

East Bengal with 22 points at the moment has put in disciplined performances so far and are one point behind table toppers Dempo and Mahindra United, Mumbai with 23 points each, but cannot afford to be complacent against Churchill outfit which is known for its steady approach.

Churchill placed 5th with 16 points is in upbeat mood having won their last match against JCT by 4-3. If they have to improve their position, the strikers will have to be bang on the target.

Churchill Brothers Coach Karim said his team plays attacking game and was happy with the team performance so far. He was only disappointed with his team showing during two ties, one against Air India Mumbai and second against HAL. The team's performance was brilliant in the last match against JCT and hoped the team puts the same performance against East Bengal tomorrow, the coach added.

Karim also said Varun Deep, Khan Thang Paite, Chitra sen Singh are doubtful starter as they are nursing injuries.

East Bengal are a much were balanced side with an enterprising attack of Edmilson Margues Pardal who is a highest scorer with nine goals to his credit so far. Boniface Ambani and Ashim Biswas are other forwards backed by fire scheming trio of Izumi Arata, Alvito D Cunha and Bibiano Fernndes. They also have a dependable defence.

Churchill too boast of very good attacking line comprising Nigerian Odafe Okolie, who have seven goals to his credit, with other forwards George Ekeh and D Raju, forming a potential threat.

UNI