I-League 2018-19: East Bengal 1-1 Aizawl FC – title race over for Red and Golds with disappointing draw against Aizawl

#2 No Plan B for Menendez

East Bengal players failed to alter their approach

East Bengal have found success this season by playing some excellent passing football, thanks to their Spanish style of play. Coach Alejandro Menendez has instilled the necessary confidence in his side to play with a fearless approach. But even after being blocked time and again by Aizawl a resolute defence, the coach didn’t push for a plan ‘B’, which surprised many.

East Bengal played too many passes in and outside the box but never found the gap to make the final pass. Their wing play was also missing as Laldanmawia Ralte was off-color throughout the match. Jaime Santos has also not performed according to his reputation.

Even after watching his team struggle on the pitch, there was no change in approach in East Bengal’s game plan from their manager. They continued to play short passes in front of the goalmouth when a shot from distance from necessary.

Menendez finally made a change by bringing in Samad Ali Mallick in the 2nd half and it was Samad who crossed a pin-point delivery which led to the equalizer. But it should’ve been done earlier as East Bengal looked like a dangerous team late in the game.