I-League: RWFC to take on unbeaten Mohun Bagan

Shillong: Debutants Royal Wahingdoh FC (RWFC), who have had an excellent run in the season so far, will lock horns with the unbeaten Mohun Bagan side in what is expected to be an exciting contest between the top two sides in the table in a Hero I-League match, here tomorrow.

Mohun Bagan are in top form this season and the team threatens to bag the top honours.

The proximity of the sides in the points table makes tomorrow's encounter crucial for both teams with one looking to create history in its maiden I-League season while the other desperate to conquer the title after years.

Currently Bagan are sitting at 28 points from 12 games, while the Royals are at 23 points from 14 games.

On the eve of the tie RWFC coach, Santosh Kashyap said that both the hosts and Bagan were doing well at the moment and are known to play attacking football. Hence, the fans can look forward to a competitive match tomorrow.

Reacting to a query on whether RWFC could be under pressure considering their title ambitions, Kashyap said that being debutants there was no reason for his side to be under pressure for they have already done well in the season to reach this level.

"We are definitely chasing the title but that does not mean that we are under pressure. Our main aim is to put up a good show and if we win the title in the process, it would be considered a bonus for us," said Kashyap, adding that debutant sides are usually expected to save relegation.

He also said that pressure should rather be on Bagan, who come to the contest unbeaten and as league leaders.

RWFC coach said that there were no special plans in place to tackle the likes of Sony Norde, Boya and Katsumi.

"At this level you have to be prepared to face quality players at every stage," he said.

Meanwhile, Bagan coach Sanjoy Sen, too, is expecting a tough contest tomorrow and declined the favourites tag for his side ahead of the crucial tie.

He reiterated that his side was taking it one match at a time and the focus was to gain maximum points from each tie.

"If you aim to be the champion you have to aim to win every match be it at home or away," he said.

The Bagan coach was also all praise for the RWFC.

Star striker Jackichand Singh and Bekay Bawar remain doubtful starters for the Royals, while Lallawnzuala will miss the tie on Saturday.