Arrows hope to end 22-match winless streak in I-League

Kolkata, April 18 (IANS) Winless in 22 matches so far, Pailan Arrows will host Goan heavyweights Churchill Brothers Sports Club in an I-League encounter at the Salt Lake Stadium here Thursday.

Pailan Arrows stay on nine points from 22 outings while Churchill Brothers, who are all poised a finish in the top-five have 44 points from 24 matches.

On paper, it looks a lop-sided contest. Churchill, till the other day were very much in the hunt for the I-League crown while Pailan stay just above already relegated HAL in the League table.

Pailan Arrows head coach Sujit Chakraborty stays aware of the challenge.

"Churchill Brothers are a strong and experienced side. Given the fact that ours is a developmental team, Churchill know better as how to handle pressure. We need to be on top of our game if we are to challenge them," he said.

"They have quality players like Beto (Roberto Mendes da Silva) in the midfield. Our midfielders have to play at their level best and need to adjust according to situation."

Pailan, all maintain, have been unlucky in the league so far. The young brigade had shown flashes of brilliance but lack of experience at crucial moments, have let them down on most occasions.

"It is important for us to keep working hard irrespective of the results. We will achieve our goal four sure," an optimistic Sujit quipped. "I hope we can do better in the few remaining matches which we have," he added, as Pailan stay in the danger of becoming the first team in history to end their campaign without a win in the I-League.