Henry Picardo and Mumbai FC having a point to prove

by FC Admin April 18, 2015

Playing without a coach is a disadvantage for any team. But, Mumbai FC, who will miss the services of their inspirational coach Khalid Jamil, who is serving a four-match suspension, seem very confident and determined to take a point from an upbeat East Bengal when they clash in a 17^th round I-League match at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata on Saturday.

Jamil has been suspended by the AIFF for four matches following the incidents during the round 15 match against Bengaluru FC in Bengaluru early this month.

Henry Picardo, who has taken charge of the team sounded confident of finishing the match with a point. “I will look to play for at least one point. If we   manage to get all three it will be a bonus,” said an optimistic Picardo after a training session.

Picardo is wary about East Bengal’s current form but believes that the Mumbai FC players will give their best against the Kolkata outfit. “East Bengal have done very well in the last couple of matches and we have to put in extra efforts to match them. The boys have always being giving their 100 percent and I am confident of them producing more than 100 percent tomorrow and get a good result,” said Picardo.

The stand-in coach Picardo also mentioned that East Bengal have a very potent attack line with Ranty Martins and Dudu, which is supported well by the midfield. But he said that his defenders have worked hard during practice and with Justine Staphen, who if fit and returns from a stomach infection, will  form a compact defence to blunt the rival attack.

Picardo was also pleased that goalkeeper Nidhinlal A.C. has also recovered from a hand injury and would take his place under the Mumbai FC bar. He is also banking on the forwards to deliver the goods. The Kolkata side will miss the home support as they will be playing in front empty stands due to security reasons.

Mumbai FC,  are currently placed 8^th with 13 points from three wins and four draws, while East Bengal who won both their games Pune are placed higher in 5^th position with 19 points from five wins and four draws .

The match in Kolkata is scheduled to start at 4.30pm.