I-League: Mumbai FC face DSK Shivajians in opener

Mumbai: Mumbai FC clash with DSK Shivajians in their opening I-League match at the Cooperage here on Sunday. Representing Mumbai and Pune respectively, they will hope for a good start under a new coach and captain in the much-anticipated Maharashtra derby.

Last season Mumbai FC lost to DSK Shivajians 0-1 in the away match, but made amends defeating the Pune club 4-0 at home. “I want to take one game at a time and I am confident of a good showing from my players, but we have to be positive tomorrow,” said new coach Santosh Kashyap, who took over the reins from Khalid Jamil.

Former international Steven Dias will lead Mumbai FC, who finished fifth last season. “It’s quite a big responsibility and I never imagined that I would be asked to lead the team. But, I guess will not have a major role to play as my team-mates are good experienced players like Thoi Singh, Pratesh Shirodkar, Allan Dias, Victorino Fernandes, Laxmikant Kattimani, Pratik Chaudhari, who know their responsibilities. We are a balanced side and I don’t think that I have to guide any of the players,” Dias said.

Defender Allan Dias, who sustained a hamstring injury during training, will miss Sunday’s match. Mumbai FC are set to field all Indian players on Sunday, as they are yet to sign any foreign player. Led by veteran India goalkeeper Subrata Paul under manager Dave Rogers, who was earlier head of the DSK Shivajians Youth Academy, Shivajians will also look for a fresh start.

“We are a balanced side and still in the process of getting the right blend with the young and experienced lot. The players are gelling well and I want the younger players to get the opportunity and exposure,” said Rogers. Rogers has included experienced players like Sanju Pradhan, Soram Poirei, Ricky L. and Nirmal Chettri along with Paul. They have few exciting youngsters in Jerry Lalrinzuala, Halicharan Narzary and Sumeet Passi.

The club have retained former Real Madrid Youth Academy product Juan Quero and brought in North Korean international Kim Song Yong under the Asian quota. Irish midfielder Shane McFaul and towering Serbian centre back Sasha Kolunija complete the Shivajians’ overseas player line-up.