I-League: DSK Shivajians await in-form Aizawl on home turf

Pune, March 6: DSK Shivajians will be playing their first home match after four back-to-back away games in the 13th round game of the I-League football championship, playing hosts to red-hot Aizawl FC who are approaching the game straight from a home win over Mumbai FC at home.

Shivajians coach Dave Rogers referred to it on a positive note. "It's nice to be back at home. We were away from home for not less than four weeks and, meanwhile, we just landed two hours ago, so for our boys, it's great to be back on home turf and again we welcome Khalid and his staff and players and everyone from Aizwal."

He minced no words to laud the heroics of Khalid Jamil and his Aizawl side for their jubilant show until now. "I said I give them the credit to where they are in the league right now and rightfully so."

"If you want to see quality football, you need to see these things in the picture and do it to the right way. Financially for a football club, player's safety and wealth should be the main focal points. I'm not complaining against anyone, but we might need to give a relook to the fixture to keep the players up."

"We got some fantastic talent in the country, fantastic coaches, clubs and the gentleman sitting next to me is a vivid proof of that. Aizwal are a great club with great fans, good players. The synergy has been perfect this season and that's the reason behind their success this season. You know, a football club is not it's on-field credibility but off the pitch as well," Rogers stated.

DSK Shivajians come into this game on the back of a 1-1 draw against Chennai City FC, thanks to the last-gasp goal by Shane McFaul.

Dave Rogers further said, "Every game is bound to be tough. We played in Aizwal back in February, it was a bit tough one. If you don't score goals, then you don't win the games. Aizwal are just doing the basic things, scoring goals and conceding very less."

On the other hand, Aizwal FC coach Khalid Jamil opined to let his players enjoy the game to the fullest.

"I am feeling really good and positive. We are playing against a good team, nonetheless, I want my boys to go and enjoy the game."