Baichung's Side Takes On Shillong Outfit

By Abhishek Ganguly

Guwahati, Mar 31 : The second division I-League kicks off on Thursday with five games at two centres (Guwahati and Madurai), but the football fraternity will have its eyes trained on one particular match - the Group A clash between United Sikkim FC (USFC) and Langsning Sports Club of Shillong at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. That game will set the ball 'rolling' for the Sikkim-based club that is the brainchild of Baichung Bhutia.

Bhutia is very serious about his latest endeavour and that was visible during Wednesday's practice session. He didn't have a full-fledged workout as he is yet to fully recover from a calf-muscle sprain, but he was very much in the thick of things - keeping a close eye on the players, pointing out mistakes some of the youngsters were committing and offering valuable tips. He is clearly the general of a team of talented men who are out to make a mark.

"The players look up to Baichung as an idol and his presence does make a lot of difference," said coach Stanley Rozario. The coach added that he would speak to the India captain about having him in the reserves' bench, despite Bhutia not being fully fit. "That lifts the morale of the side, and I can also use him if required for clinching a victory," Rozario explained.

It's true that a half-fit Baichung could make a difference in any match, but with the squad the Snow Lions - as USFC are popularly called - have built, a winning start against the L Darlong-coached side shouldn't be a tall ask. Players like NS Manju, Budhiram Tudu, B Beikhokhei, Lalrinfela, Prem Kumar, M Suresh, K Kulothungan and Bijen Singh - all of whom have played at the highest level - gives USFC the edge. Rennedy Singh is also on the roster, but he won't be available in the first phase as he is recuperating after a knee operation.

Three foreigners - Johnny Menyongar, Mituski Ichihara and Joseph Lapira - have been roped in to bolster the side.

Langsning Sports Club, who have been training here for 10 days, also have three foreigners in their ranks and Rozario has seen them in action during his stint with Shillong Lajong FC. But Rozario is stressing on is an attacking game to make it a memorable 'debut' for Bhutia's side.

Thursday's Matches (Guwahati)

NISA, Manipur vs Golden Threads
Simla Youngs vs Gauhati Town Club
Langsning Sports Club vs United Sikkim FC.