ONGC’s small test before giant clash

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Express news service :New Delhi, Nov 08 2012, 00:55 IST

The ONGC side competing in the EFPO All India Public Sector football tournament may just be the reserve-team version of the senior side, but the results do not show it. The defending champions defeated FCI 2-0 in the semifinals to inch closer for yet another title, provided they beat State Bank of Travancore in the final. While the title cash will keep Subroto Bhattacharya, ONGC's coach, involved, he will also keep an eye on another challenge, the side's I-League game against the fancied Mohun Bagan on November 9 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

Lying currently in the 13th spot of the I League on the points after the end of round 4, ONGC have only managed to secure a solitary point so far. They have three defeats against their account which has already pushed them into the danger zone of relegation so early in the season. ONGC had a similar tale two seasons back where they ended bottom of the charts and were relegated to the second division. But since then the institutional team have worked hard to make their way into the I-League this year, and coach Bhattacharya is confident of an improved performance.

“It would be early to say anything regarding how would the season will end for ONGC but despite three losses, we have shown potential against Air India. We have to ensure that we are consistent in our approach. From here the bar can only go up otherwise we won't be able to catch

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