By Abhishek Roy, IANS
Ludhiana : East Bengal coach Subrata Bhattacharya praised his players and thanked the fans as the Kolkata giants lifted the Federation Cup after a gap of 11 years here Saturday.
“I wanted to give something back to our fans. The boys showed a great spirit and I hope they continue in the same vein,” Bhattacharya said after his team defeated 10-man Mahindra United 2-1 at the Guru Nanak Stadium HERE and lifted the trophy for the fifth time.
For Bhattacharya, the win means a lot and would add a new dimension to his career as few had thought East Bengal could ever reach the finals.
The 55-year-old became a legend in East Begnal’s archrival Mohun Bagan after a 17-year illustrious career as defender and a few seasons as a coach. As a player, Bhattacharya had been part of Federation Cup winning teams seven times.
But the former India defender raised a few eyebrows when he decided to coach Bagan’s rivals East Bengal earlier this season. Given the legendary rivalry between the two Kolkata clubs, his decision sent shock waves in Indian football.
That is now behind him. The title will obviously be a jewel in his crown now.
Bhattacharya, affectionately called Babloo Da, is always known for some last-minute tricks, and after the half time he asked midfielder Syed Rahim Nabi to drop back to strengthen the citadel.
The decision did the trick as East Bengal were already leading 2-1 till the breather, and in the second half their defensive ploy didn’t give any chance to Mahindra to fire in the equaliser.
“Once we conceded the goal, we felt it would be better if we fall back as we could not afford to concede another goal at that juncture,” said Nabi.
“We had given a goal just before half time and even though Mahindra were playing with 10 men, we did not want to give them a look-in,” he added.
“The credit for the title goes to Babloo Da. He is the man behind this result,” he said.
Brazilian Edmilson Marques, who scored a brace, said: “It is always a great feeling to score in such a big match. But I am happier that we were able to take the title.”