Aizawl FC's hopes of landing their maiden I-League title were dealt a blow by defending champions Bengaluru FC who struck deep in stoppage time through Marjan Jugovic to break Khalid Jamil's boys hearts.
With three rounds to go, Aizawl are now tied on 30 points each along with Mohun Bagan at the top and three points above East Bengal who are on third place.
Aizawl, who got relegated last year but got a chance to play this season after three goan clubs (Dempo SC, Salgaocar FC and Sporting Clube de Goa) pulled themselves out of the I- League, are in race for their maiden I-League title along with Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.
"The boys have been positive and have come all along the way and now they need to keep themselves focus and win tomorrow's match before we play against Mohun Bagan at home next for the title clash," said Jamil.
"The last time we played against Churchill Brothers we won convincingly but after Derrick Pereira took over the reins they are a transformed side as they humbled Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan and East Bengal before they drew their last two matches against Shillong Lajong and Mumbai. We need to put up collective performance and not feel the extra pressure of winning the title," stated Jamil.
The former Shivajians boss will look to stick with his top performers, especially Ansumana Kromah who has been in blistering form.
He will be partnered by Anthony Wolfe upfront who was among the scorers against the gaffer's former side. Adil Khan and Rowilson Rodrigues will look to helm the defence while Bektur Talgat will be charged with marshalling the midfield.
All eyes will obviously be on the find of the season so far - the nippy winger Chesterpoul Lyngdoh who has been giving full backs nightmares.
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