I-League: NEROCA aim upward surge

After a fragile start to the league season, NEROCA have found their momentum at the right time and will look to strengthen their hold in the Top 4 even more when they take to field in another 'Northeastern Derby' against Shillong Lajong on Friday. While Lajong's youngsters are still clueless about how to make a turnaround, the home team would see this as a perfect opportunity to put the foot on the gas and accelerate forward.

Alison Kharsyntiew's side have remained at the bottom of the table for quite some time now, having managed only one win in 10 games in the season so far. Their decision to go with an all-Indian squad for the 2018/19 season wasn't the most intelligent decision, it seems. The young lads have been brilliant in bits and pieces but results haven't favoured the Reds from Meghalaya.

Home side NEROCA had a nervy start to the season, however things began to fall in place for the Orange brigade and coach Manuel R. Fraile must be impressed by his side's performance off late. The Manipuri side is placed comfortably in the third position with 18 points just behind Real Kashmir (also with 18 points) on Goal Difference. A win would help them to address their dearth and hunger and challenge the other teams in the Top 4. The match kicks off at 2.00 P.M., early afternoon at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, Imphal.

-By Manas P. Kashyap