Kibu Vicuna: Nongdamba the only player who can play the European way

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Published at :January 20, 2020 at 4:31 AM

Modified at :December 13, 2023 at 1:01 PM

Kibu Vicuna: Nongdamba the only player who can play the European way

(Courtesy : I-League Media)

The Spaniard admitted that his side became complacent after scoring the second goal.

After winning the important Kolkata Derby 2-1 against East Bengal, Mohun Bagan strengthened their position at the top of the table. The Mariners head coach Kibu Vicuna was content with the result as he interacted with journalists in the post match press conference. Starting with his thoughts on the game, Kibu Vicuna highlighted how his team were better in the first half, while East Bengal came back strongly in the second half. [KH_ADWORDS type="3" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] "We were better in the first half, but they were better in the second. I'm happy with the performance of the team because derbies are always special. Our opponents played well, but we had to win to continue the momentum." When quizzed about winning the I-League title after going six matches unbeaten, Kibu Vicuna was very pragmatic with his opinions. "We have only played 40% of the league and the other part is left, so the players have to show humility. Last time, we played the derby in Calcutta Football League, but did not win. We are happy with the result, but we know we have to prove a lot before we can win the competition," he added. [KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] The Spanish tactician pointed out how his players became complacent with their attitude after taking the lead as he went on to say, "We did not keep the ball well in the second half. Of course, the result matters and I was happy with the way we played against Churchill Brothers. But, the players became complacent and thought their job was over. We should never do that in football. They scored one goal and came close again." Vicuna complained about the congested fixtures in January for the Mariners pointing out the physical and mental difficulties. "We have to focus on the reality. We have to concentrate on the next match. In January, we have too many matches and mentality it is very tough for the players, as we play NEROCA within four days." [KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News | Article Continues Below"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS] Lastly Kibu Vicuna sung praises for Nongdamba Naorem, who had a terrific game for the Mariners and created the first goal for Joseba Beitia. "I am very impressed with (Nongdamba) Naorem. He is probably the only player who can play the European way of getting behind the lines. I told him that as he isn't strong, so he should avoid contact. He is only 19 and he has been playing really well in these tough matches. He is very young, so he needs to be calm," he concluded.

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