CHANDIGARH: Infused with new energy and fresh ideas from their new coach Ed Engelkes, RoundGlass Punjab FC are on a roll after two back-to-back victories that got their falling I-League campaign back on track.
The fourth-placed Punjab outfit, however, has a stellar test waiting as they prepare to take on table toppers Mohammedan SC in their next match of the tournament on Sunday. In what promises to be an electric encounter, the game will be played at the Naihati Stadium in West Bengal.
After recording a 3-1 victory over the Indian Arrows in their previous game, the Punjab FC rose to the fourth spot on the points table - level with Sreenidi Deccan FC with one game in hand.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Saturday, RoundGlass Punjab FC head coach Ed Engelkes said, "I am happy with our performance against the Indian Arrows. We were quite organized and did well to keep the ball and create chances. We have prepared for this game like we always do."
"Mohammedan SC has several quality players and has got good results recently. They will be confident and so will we. It should be a nice challenge on Sunday," the 58-year-old said.
Talking about the opponents and preparations against Mohammedan Sporting, Engelkes said, "We did prepare well and yes we have been watching their games, and accordingly we prepared our game plan"
He also added, "We don't want to adjust too much because of the opponents but yes our players are ready to face them and we are looking forward to the game."
Commenting on the remaining three fixtures in the first phase against Mohammedan SC, TRAU FC, and Gokulam Kerala FC, the Dutchman said, "We have a couple of teams left to play, who are on the top of the league table. It will be good to see if we are competitive with them and that is the biggest challenge for tomorrow, and for the coming games. In the end, we will see who comes out on top."
Midfielder Shankar Sampingiraj, who accompanied the coach at the presser said the team is well aware of the threats that lie ahead of them when they take the field against Mohammedan SC.
"We were happy to pick up the three points against the Arrows but also disappointed that we didn't keep the clean sheet. However, the mood in the dressing room is very positive and everyone is looking forward to this game now," Shankar said.
"We are expecting a tough game against Mohammedan. It promises to be an exciting game for the fans as both teams are well-matched and will be fighting for the win," he added.
Mohammedan Sporting, on the other hand, are on the top of the table and will be aiming to continue to maintain their lead over Gokulam Kerala FC who are hot on their heels.
