JOIN USChhetri pleased with BFC's strong start to new season
It doesn’t matter the team he plays for, when you have a certain Sunil Chhetri in your side he ought to be your leader. A man who sets the mark by example has been the cornerstone around which Bengaluru FC too have developed as a quality football playing team.
The 31-year-old has been in good nick this season as well. Starting with a winner in Bengaluru’s opener against Salgaocar, Chhetri was a constant threat to newcomers Aizawl FC in their second game. Two wins from the two away games is the ideal start his side was looking for, felt Chhetri.
“I’m very pleased with the way the team came out and played the two games. The last two seasons taught us how crucial a good start is,” said Chettri. “We started the first season (2013-14) with a draw against Mohun Bagan while last season (2014-15) we drew with Dempo SC and then lost to East Bengal and Pune FC. That meant we were chasing the whole season. In that context I am really happy,” he said.
Up next for Bengaluru is an unpredictable Shillong Lajong FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Sunday. With two wins, a draw and a loss in their four matches so far aganist the North Eastern side, Chhetri knows his side will have to be on top of their game if they are to get a favourable result against the tricky opposition.
“Believe me, it’s a tricky one. But then I don’t think we will be having any ‘walk in the park’ kind of games, specially at home where we are expected to win everything. The final result is not something that’s in your control. All you can do is give your best and we are committed to,” he said talking about the team’s approch against Lajong who will be looking for their first win of the season.
The Ashley Westwood-coached side will once again be without two of their key players Robin Singh and Joshua Walker, both sidelined due to knee injuries. Though Chhetri felt that missing these players was a big blow, he was confident of others stepping up.
“Those are big losses. But I also see it as an oppotunity for others to step up and show what they have got. Robin has been with this side for two years and we all know what he brings to the table. This time too he was in good nick before the injury. Likewise Josh (Walker) has been a key player too. He is one guy who can set up a play from the back and command the midfield,” he said.
New comers Kim Seong Yong and Malswamzuala have been impressive so far. While Seong Yong set up CK Vineeth for their opening goal against Salgaocar, the 18-year-old Malswamzuala has been a live wire on the field.
“I’m really impressed. Ashley (Westwood) is really smart when it comes to signing new players. He knows what he wants and he gets guys who fits the bill. The new players are not only technically good, but they are great lads. And that shows of in their game,” opined the skipper.