"Need to control the game," says Alison Kharsyntiew ahead of ATK Mohun Bagan clash

The Highlanders assistant coach also stressed on the importance of maintaining a resolute defensive unit.

Currently at fifth place in the Indian Super League (ISL) standings, NorthEast United have a chance to make it into the top four on Tuesday. However, they will be facing a strong ATK Mohun Bagan side who are second only to Mumbai City in the points table. The Mariners more or less seem to have made sure of a playoffs position, but any team can beat any team according to the Highlanders assistant coach Alison Kharsyntiew and striker Deshorn Brown.

The duo represented the club at the pre-match press conference that was held on Monday afternoon. During the event, they spoke on various topics including gameplan and chances of winning against Antonio Habas and Co.

Strategy against ATK Mohun Bagan

So far in the ongoing 2020-21 season, NorthEast United have been known for focusing on defence and hitting the opposition on the counter-attack. When asked about the ATK Mohun Bagan side who also follow a similar style, Alison Kharsyntiew said, "You can see that the ATK Mohun Bagan players are effective, quick and intelligent. We should not give them time on the ball.

"Whatever their style is, we need to dictate play and control the game. When we don't have the ball, we'll work hard and be patient for the ball. When we have the ball, we have to be clinical in the final third. We have to defend as a team and not give the opponent much space to operate.

"We'll stick to the plan. They are a good team. We just have to get going from the beginning and things will happen," Deshorn Brown added to his coach's comments.

Differences in playing style between Bengaluru and NEUFC

It goes without saying that Brown has been more effective in attack since he shifted base to the Northeast club from Bengaluru FC. At BFC, he was not given an important role this season, as a result of which he failed to produce good numbers in the first half of the league.

The 30-year-old explained that this might be a result of the difference in playing style between both teams. He also went on to claim that the Highlanders' style would suit any player.

"It (NEUFC's style) is different from what Bengaluru play. I think this style gives you more of a scoring opportunity. The difference is they penetrate from the middle as well. Bengaluru mostly go wide which means the deliveries are not always great. Here, there's a mixture of everything which is great. So, for me, I feel it is effective for any player," the striker commented.

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