I-League: Aizawl FC start favourites at home against Churchill Brothers

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Aizawl, December 12: Defending I-League champions Aizawl FC host Goan outfit Churchill Brothers in their first home fixture this season at their RG Stadium in Aizawl on Wednesday (December 13). This match will be significant in Aizawl's title defence as they are quite strong at home. Aizawl garnered 25 points from a possible 27 points last season at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium.

On their way to clinching the title, Aizawl FC scored six goals and conceded only two goals against Churchill Brothers last season, collecting maximum points against the Goan side.

Aizawl's Portuguese coach Paul Menezes claimed they will fight for three points in every match. "We will play the way we played in the Mizoram Premier League. Sometimes we have to defend we cannot attack the opponents all the time," he said. "Several key players have left us, but I hope we can form a strong team this season. After collecting one point against East Bengal, I expect three points against Churchill Brothers."

Highlighting the importance of starting strong at home, Aizawl captain Alfred Jaryan said: "Last season was a great one and the fans played their part too. We will try to replicate last season's form and will give our best in every game. We play for the club, fans and most importantly, Mizoram."

Two-time I-League champions Churchill have had a bad start to their season, having lost two of their opening matches against Shillong Lajong and Mohun Bagan. The Goan team, coached by Ukranian Mykola Shevchenko, are yet to score their first goal this season. They have, worryingly, conceded seven.

Shevchenko, who has played for Churchill earlier, is optimistic that his team will gain the much-needed confidence against Aizawl FC. "We have lost two straight matches and I hope we can develop and change as a team tomorrow. We came with a new mindset hoping to regain our confidence. We have travelled a lot these days and this makes it harder for the player's recovery, but injuries are part and parcel of the game."

Churchill will want to leave Aizawl with flying colours as three points against Aizawl FC will lift them above the relegation zone. However, Menezes warned that forward Andrei will not make it easy for Churchill.

Aizawl FC vs Churchill Brothers

I-League

Live from Rajiv Gandhi Stadium

At 2 pm

On Star Sports 2 and Hotstar

Source: AIFF Media