East Bengal keen to open account in the morrow's match against HAL

Bangalore, Jan 10 (UNI) Fancied East Bengal after a first round shock defeat at the hands of Air India is taking a relatively easy tie against Hindustan Aeronautics Sports Club in the second round of the National Football League here tomorrow.

HAL, elevated after Tata Football Academy cried off from the senior league, however have a twin advantage of playing at home and also with a morale boosting draw against another kolkata giant Mohan Bagan in the frist round.

Nothing withstanding a gloomy start and injury problems to three of its key players, East Bengal appear ready to quell the challenge from aircraftmen. Actually the team had weakened considerably this season having lost Bhaichung Bhutia, who score 12 goals during the last NFL, and a couple of foreign players.

However, coach Carlos Roberto Periera De Silva appeared confident after the team finished its practice session this morning. brushing aside the Air India loss, the team had long practice sessions during the last couple of days and is rearing for the contest.

Key players like Defenders Gurpreet Singh (ankle) an Saumik Dey (Knee) and striker Ashim Biswas (fever), still nursing their injuries, are doubtful starters. good news however is that two its star defenders in Mutath Suresh and Covan Lawrence were back in action. The team will look to lanky Kenyan striker Boniface Ngairah Ambani, a new face in the team, to open the scoring.

"We failed to create enough scoring chances in Mumbai. Now we are better prepared and want full points from the morrow's match. HASC are said to be very keen competitors. But I don't know much about these men," De Silva said.

The coach has come under fire after the team continued to suffer from its poor run with a show in Durand Cup, IFA shield and the just concluded Federation Cup, which was far from being satisfying. Its quarterfinal exit in the Fed Cup, losing to Dempo, did not reflect the true potential of the Kolkata giants.

On the other hand, HASC is putting up a brave face after its fighting display against Bagan. Despite its farward line falling far short of the required standard, the boys defended hard aginst the Barreto-led Mohun Bagan. Another defense oriented display is on the cards and custodian Gumpe Rime, who was adjudged the 'player of the math' for his fine display against Bagan, will have a key role to play again.

The team is looking to sign a couple of foreign players to bolster its attack, which may happen only after the fourth round.

"We could have won the match against Bagan had we played a better attack. We have tested a few foreign players and will finalise a couple of names in a week or so. We can put up another fighting display against East Bengal," HASC Coach Krishnaji Rao said.

India Under-19 camper Reishangmi Vashim, who came close to score a goal against Bagan had picked up a knee injury and Kuttimani would play in his place, the coach added.

UNI