I league 2nd Division Preview: Garhwal FC – Underdogs look to make a mark

by Suchit Halder October 5, 2020

While all other clubs have went for some high-profile signings, Delhi based Garhwal FC have kept their faith in continuity with few minor additions.

The side from the National Capital had a fantastic run in the preliminary round after they topped their Group A with 14 points. Having played only 7 games, they managed to win 4, draw 2 and lost 1 game. The team scored 14 goals in their 7 matches, which was the best display after ARA who have scored 15.

Garhwal FC might be considered as the underdogs out of the five teams in the final qualifiers but the club’s goalkeeper Sayak Barai has stated that they should not be taken lightly. The 23 year old further added that other teams might be drawing attention through the star names but they are also ready to spring a surprise.

Also Read: Garhwal is ready to spring a surprise, declares custodian Sayak Barai

Garhwal will be banking on their star striker, Ekomobong Victor Philip, who has been in electric form this season. The 26 year old Nigerian was the top scorer in the preliminary round with 7 goals. He also got a hat-trick in the team’s 4-1 win over the ATK reserves. His Nigerian pal, Bala Alhassan will be looking to control the defence.

The side has also added to their midfield depth Japanese veteran Katsumasa Nomura. The 34 year old came into the team on a free transfer in August. Garhwal have also strengthened the squad by roping in number of free transfers in July and August. Most recently, Garhwal have added 4 Mumbai based players in Vinod Pandey, Amey Bhatkal, Nikhil Pal and Rahul Das.

The DSA Senior division champions, Garhwal will now be focusing on winning the I-League second division. Coach Vikas Rawat is confident of his side qualifying for the main division of I-League and represent the state of Delhi on the footballing map of India.

 

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Garhwal FC skipper Bala Alhassan sounded a confident figure as he spoke about his team’s chances in the Hero I-League qualifier 2020 Read More – https://bit.ly/305Xa2c #HeroILeagueQualifiers #IndianFootball #2ndDivision #FootballIndia

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Talking about the preparation, Garhwal FC’s assistant coach, Anup Singh said “The lockdown hampered our preparation and the players lost their fitness a bit but we started our camp in Delhi before coming to Kolkata and the players are back to 60-70% fitness.” Further adding on his star striker, “Everyone knows about Victor and his ability as he was our top scorer. He will be vital to us”

Talking about the club’s chances at making history, Anup continued, “Qualifying for the I-League will mean history for Garhwal FC and Delhi Football as well. Last time (2015) we did not prepare that much but we are confident of qualifying this time and the local players will get to make a mark. Our aim will also be to play the ISL in the future”.

Anup also mentioned that Gaurav Rawat will be a youngster to watch out for. The 20 year old midfielder got high praise from the clubs assistant coach and also is one of the youngest to play in the I-League second division.

The side will take on Mohammedan SC in their opening game of the final round of qualifications on the 8^th of October at the Kalyani Stadium in Kolkata.

For fixtures, standing and all news on I League 2nd Division – Final Round – Visit here

Also Read: I League Qualifiers Preview – Bhawanipore look to make History

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