Tags:
Journalism of Courage
Can East Bengal complete the NFL hat-trick? Taking stock of the champs and pretenders
EAST BENGAL
Never missed the League; Best Finish: Champions thrice
Player to watch: Bhaichung Bhutia India
Looking ahead: The return of Bhutia to the line up will add sting, particularly after losing Okoro and Junior.
DEMPO SC
Four appearances; Best finish: 2nd in 8217;04-05
Player to watch: Ronty Martins Nigeria
Looking ahead: Recovery from a sudden setback that was caused due to the death of Cristiano Junior on the field.
CHURCHILL BROS
Never missed the League; Best finish: Runners-up in 8217;96-97
Player to watch: Yusif Yakubu, if he joins
Looking ahead: Keep their fingers crossed for a last minute signing of star striker Yusif Yakubu who has helped them with a whopping 18 2002 and 21 2003 goals.
JCT MILLS
Failed to qualify only once; Best finish: Champions in 8217;96-97
Player to watch: Md Mansuru Nigeria
Looking ahead: Dreams of recapturing the lost glory of having won the first ever NFL in 1996-97.
SALGAOCAR SC
Never missed the League; Best finish: Champions in 8217;98-99
Player to watch: Felix Ibebrewu Nigeria
Looking ahead: On improving their performance inspite of Brazilian Marcus Perreira8217;s sudden departure for personal reasons.
MOHUN BAGAN
Never missed the League; Best finish: Champs in 8217;97-98, 8217;99-00,8217;01-02
Player to watch: Douglas DaSilva Brazil
Looking ahead: To keep 8217;keeper Subroto Paul episode out of the way and get on with business. Find a suitable replacement for the agile Jose Ramirez Baretto.
