Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Dempo, E Bengal to vie for fourth spot in I-League

Kolkata, Apr 15 (PTI) With the title out of their reach, defending champions Dempo SC and East Bengal will aim for the fourth spot in the ONGC I-League standings, locking horns at the Vidyasagar Krirangan here tomorrow.

But a positive result for the Goans will help them gain confidence when they take on Bahrain outfit Muharraq in the AFC Cup on April 21.

Occupying the pole position in Group E with seven points from three matches, Dempo are in line for a pre-quarterfinal berth in that championship.

Obviously, Armando Colaco's boys have AFC as the priority and would look to count the positives by winning against East Bengal ahead of their international outing in Goa.

With their ace striker Ranty Martins and midfielder Roberto Mendis Silva ruled out of the AFC Cup match due to double bookings, Colaco said they have to be vigilant in their last league match.

"I've told the boys to play their natural game but at the same time they should not do anything silly so that our side gets depleted in the AFC Cup home match," said Colaco who is expected to field a full side against the red-and-gold brigade.
PTI

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