Mutual respect evident between the two Mariners strikers
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Jeje Lalpekhlua (L) happy to see Balwant Singh score in his comeback match againt Churchill Brothers on Sunday. Image Source: Xtra Time[/caption]Kolkata: Mohun Bagan striker Jeje Lalpekhlua is happy to see his teammate Balwant Singh scoring on his comeback against Churchill Brothers. Balwant, who missed most part of the last season due to injury, scored the winner for his team in the first I League match at Barasat.
Both the strikers shared a mutual respect with each other which augurs well for the Mariners in the long season ahead. According to Jeje, “After a long injury he (Balwant) came back and scored a goal. It is good for him and the team. I hope he can continue the good performance. I hope he keeps himself fit and goes on to play for the entire season.”
Balwant was happy to hear the praises of Jeje. “It’s a team work. I am happy to score a goal in the first match. Important thing is the team will be happy to see whoever scores a goal - me, Duffy and Balwant. The bottom line is to get three points. Even if I am on the bench and see the team win, I will be happy,” said Balwant to the media at the club tent on Tuesday.
Both the players felt the success of the Mariners in the last couple of seasons lies in the team spirit and the bonding they shared with each other having been together for the last two seasons.
“Secret of the success is the team spirit and to stay together for the last three seasons,” said Balwant. Jeje feels it is good for the team to have a healthy competiton. According to the AIFF Player of the Year, “It is a healthy competition between three of us (Duffy and Balwant). It is challenging for all three of us as we have to play well in order to get into the playing eleven.”
Both Jeje and Balwant agreed that Sony Norde will add to the strength of the squad.
“The strength will obviously increase with him (Norde) joining us. He is a very good player and has a lot of experience,” feel Balwant.
Jeje, who did not feature in the playing eleven on Sunday is having a slight strain in his calf muscles. But the striker is confident about getting back into the side soon. According to Jeje, “When I joined the practice I had a slight strain in my calf muscles. I am slowly getting back to full fitness.”
Mohun Bagan physical trainer Garcia was seen weeping on the sidelines after the match against Churchill Brothers. It was the Brazilian’s sincere effort that Balwant was able to take the field in the I League opener.
“Yes, a lot of credit should go to him for making me fit for playing matches. May be he got emotional.
We need to improve a lot more in matches ahead,” said Balwant about Garcia.
Balwant had offers from Bagan’s arch rivals East Bengal but he decided against. On being asked whether it was a right decision, he replied, “It was a right decision for me. I was happy here and share a good rapport with Sanjay Sir and have always given me confidence. I was very keen to stay with Mohun Bagan this season. ”
Lastly, about his target for the season, Balwant said, “My target will be score as many goals and win matches for Mohun Bagan.”
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