Sayantan Maitra
I-LEAGUE Media Team 

AIZAWL: Veteran Brazilian goal-poacher Jose Ramirez Barreto, currently plying his skills with Bhawanipore FC, believes that everyone associated with the Kolkata outfit know the importance of their game with Shillong outfit Royal Wahingdoh FC at the Lammual Stadium on Friday, April 11.

The two teams go head-to-head in an unplanned finale of the Second Division League 2013/14 Final Round.

This is also going to be the Mohun Bagan legend’s final game as a footballer, as Barreto decides to hang up his boots following the game, and seek other pastures.

“It’s a special game not only for me, but for everyone from our Club in particular, and we definitely want to make sure we have made it that way,” the 37-year-old striker said following a light warm-up session under the watchful eyes of Juliano Fontana on Thursday morning.

“The Players know the importance of the tournament, and it will be a very important trophy for Bhawanipore. When we came here, we knew it was going to be difficult and it has turned out that way.”

It is a must-win game for Wahingdoh as picking up all three points will ensure the North-East outfit qualify. However, Barreto is wary of their opponents’ shape and is not taking the match lightly.

“Wahingdoh are a good team. Not only are they very fast and pacy but also very dynamic and balanced. Long balls are their forte along with neat passing. I do believe they will make it hard for us tomorrow, but we are preparing for it.

“When you are in a competition like the Second Division League, you need to be prepared for everything.”

Bhawanipore are currently on 17 points, and recording just a draw will hand them the trophy. However, Wahingdoh are confident of notching another win in the competition.

“Just like the previous games, we will go for the three points. That is our aim,” an official from Wahingdoh said.

“We are very positive and will grab this chance.”

Nandakumar Singh’s men registered a 2-0 victory against Kalighat Milan Sangha on Wednesday, following a dominant performance, and some good displays from Liberian forward Bekay Bawar and Indian schemer Jackichand Singh.

They are looking forward to maintaining the momentum in their last match tomorrow as well and believe that the absence of Bhawanipore gaffer from the touchline will help the team.

“There are no such tactics and strategies that we want to employ against Bhawanipore. It is just an undying hunger to taste success,” the official from Wahingdoh continued.

“It will surely help that the opposition Coach is banned from the touchline as that will enable us to go out to earning the victory.”

Juliano has been suspended for four matches following a verbal brawl with Kalighat officials during their match on April 7.