Shivajians-Aizawl face-off in battle of newcomers

In a battle of the newcomers, DSK Shivajians would look to go one step and carve out a maiden win when they lock horns with Aizawl FC in a I-League football match here tomorrow.
Shivajians held seasoned Sporting clube de Goa to a goal-less draw in their first-ever match at the top level early this week, and the morale would be high after an impressive outing.
However, the team from Aizawl, also in their maiden season, suffered reverses in the home and away matches in first their outings. They were easily beaten by defending champions and strong contender Mohun Bagan on the opening day on January 8. And then another title aspirant and former champion, Bengaluru FC, did not have to break a sweat to get the better of the newcomer at the Rajiv Gandhi stadium in the hill town.

Playing their second game at the same venue, Aizawl FC would be eager to make an impression in front of their home crowd.
While the experienced Dereick Pereira-coached DSK Shivajians are placed fifth in the points table with a draw in their sole outing, Aizawl FC are struggling at the bottom of the standings in the nine-team league.