Kolkata, September 1, 2019: Mohun Bagan dominated their arch rivals in the season’s first derby but were unable to find a goal as the match ended in a goalless draw.

Kibu Vicuna sprung a surprise in his team selection, benching top scorer Salva Chamorro and starting Gurjnder Kumar in central defence. In midfield Fran Glez started with Joseba Beitia and Sk Sahil. The Mariners took control of the midfield soon after kickoff and began to move the ball around while enjoying a lion’s share of the possession. After initial exchanges the first chance fell to Mohun Bagan when Beitia swung in a freekick which was headed just wide by Fran Morante.

Mohun Bagan continued to dominate the match but lacked finishing touch. The central defensive pairing of Morante and Gurjinder gave a flawless performance with Glez or Sahil giving additional defensive cover. The few times East Bengal attackers managed to get past Mohun Bagan defenders they met the reliable hands of Debjit Mazumdar, who barely put a foot wrong. In midfield the trio of Glez, Beitia and young Sahil took complete control while VP Suhair worked extremely hard in attack. In the battle of Maharastrians on the right flank Ashutosh Mehta came out on top against former Mohun Bagan player Abhishek Ambekar. On the other wing Chullova kept the dangerous Pintu Mahato subdued.

The Mariners had their best chance to take the lead a few minutes before halftime when Suhair took advantage of a defensive lapse and had a clear view of the goal. Unfortunately, even though he found himself in a similar position like the Durand Cup semi against Real Kashmir the outcome this time was different as his shot was hit straight towards Ralte.

East Bengal started the second half better and got their first chance when Espada’s header went over the bar after a corner. On 64th minute East Bengal had their best chance but Debjit Majumdar used his body to block a close range shot from Pintu Mahato. Two of Mohun Bagan’s best opportunities in second half fell to Fran Glez, who headed over and Suhair. Both coaches tried to change the game with substitutions but defence of both teams held on to ensure a goalless draw.