#5 Sanjoy Sen’s tactical brilliance
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With a plastered arm, Sanjoy Sen seemed edgy before the match started. When the team list came out, there were significant changes and Duffy seemed to be a gamble, given his condition. Another gamble from was to drop his in-form player Kean Lewis to accommodate U-22 debutant, Fernandes.
Bagan began the match in emphatic fashion. Katsumi was tasked with the responsibility of filling in the boots of Lewis and playing on the left flank which used to be his position before he switched to a much more central role and he came out with flying colours.
Not only did he receive the ball adeptly, but he also ran down both the flanks with equal dexterity and whipped in some sublime crosses.
The selection of the U-22 midfielder, Fernandes, was probably the best and one of the most audacious decisions taken by Sen. Fernandes was phenomenal in today’s game. His scintillating speed and movement of the ball left the Lajong defenders flummoxed.
Early in the game, he had to be stymied by a body block when Zodingliana brought him crashing down to the ground. He spawned a peach of a long-ball for Katsumi who failed to keep his shot on target despite a stellar run down the left.
Fernandes made way for an experienced Prabir in the 69th minute to a standing ovation.
Souvik Chakrabarti and Sehnaj Singh played anchors in the Mohun Bagan midfield. Souvik connected the defence with the attack up front. He was extremely industrious as he laid the foundation for Bagan to make inroads at will.
Sehnaj, as well, stood tall and was instrumental in marshalling his troops from the back.
Bagan would definitely relish the night as they were able to log full points. However, there are a few glitches that will need to be fixed if they are to challenge for the title.
