New Delhi: Mohun Bagan plugged gaps in their backline but bottled up in front of the Ravshan Kulob goal as well for a goalless beginning to their AFC Champions League II campaign in Kolkata on Wednesday.
After a largely muted three quarters of action in which both teams bordered on caution, the match sprang to life in the final 15 minutes when Bagan had a go at their Tajik opponents with the introduction of Greg Stewart, Liston Colaco and Apuia.
They created four clear one on chances but neither of Jason Cummings, Dimitri Petratos or Liston Colaco could find the back of the net when sent through on goal.
The only time the ball went in, it was chalked off as Petratis was found offside in the 88th minute. By then Bagan were looked the only team who could core with Stewart sending delightful through balls.
But Cummings scuffed his dinked attempt while Colaco shot wide whiel Petratos’ shot blocked as Ravshan held on for a point at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
Before that only once or twice had the teams found a clear sight at goal with Muhammad Jon Rahimov shooting straight to Bagan keeper Vishal Kaith in the 27 minute.
Both teams cancel each other
It was the first shot on target till that point that pointed out lack of penetration from both sides opting for square passes to maintain possession and slow build-up that was countered by mid block tactics.
Though playing at home infront of a demanding crowd, Bagan’s scepticism was understandable as they had failed to protect two goals lead twice in their last two matches, costing them the Durand Cup and a win in their Indian Super League opener.
Judging by the chances they created later on, Bagan coach Jose Molina would argue that his play of using a four-man backline instead of three he has used so far along with Deepak Tangri as defensive shield was justified.
The Spanish coach though also has to worry about the form of their star-studded strikers as Ravshan is a team this Bagan side should beat if they want to advance beyond the group stage.
Mohun Bagan opened their AFC Champions League II campaign with a 0-0 draw with Tajik side Ravshan Kulob Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
