United SC `proud` to stave off relegation sans sponsors

Having escaped relegation by showing indomitable spirit in times of financial crisis, United SC captain Deepak Mondal said the credit goes to the players and officials for being committed to the cause.

Kolkata: Having escaped relegation by showing indomitable spirit in times of financial crisis, United SC captain Deepak Mondal today said the credit goes to the players and officials for being committed to the cause.

Summing up their plight, Mondal said, "When we started the season we had nothing... And when we`re finishing now, we have nothing. Our heads however are held high." Having staved off relegation after their 2-0 win over defending champions Churchill Brothers, United SC players are on a high. "We`re not sure what will be our fate and where will we play, but we will take pride from the fact that our team will play in the next year`s I-League," an emotional Mondal said during a felicitation ceremony of the club. "We had some tough times with players like Ranty Martins leaving us, even the coach (Eelco Schattorie) had to leave due to monetary problems. "The core of the side however remained united, true to our name and this has translated in our remarkable show to escape relegation," Mondal added. At a time when things are looking bright for footballers especially with the upcoming franchise-based ISL, United SC are still struggling to get a sponsor. The felicitation also had current Mohammedan Sporting forward Dipendu Biswas who recalled their struggle last season. "I`ve personally seen how myself along with senior players Deepak, Sangram (Mukherjee) and officials went hunting for sponsors," Biswas said. United SC director Nabab Bhattacharya said things had started looking better than it was last season. "We are in talks for sponsors, hopefully something will materialise soon." Placed ninth in the 13-team table, United SC conclude their I-league campaign taking on Maidan heavyweights East Bengal on April 28.