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ONGC aim to finish on a high

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Press Trust of India New Delhi
ONGC would look to keep their unbeaten run at the Ambedkar Stadium intact as they take on Mumbai FC in their last home game of the I-League here tomorrow.

From whipping boys to giants at home, coach Santosh Kashyap has waved his magic wand since taking up the reins last December.

Under Kashyap, ONGC have lost only twice, against Mohun Bagan (away) and Pune FC at home. They have won seven and drew five.

"The game against Mumbai FC is of huge importance for us. Our aim was to finish in the top seven. The loss to Pune FC meant we had to go down in the table. So a win will once again and bring our campaign back on track," Kashyap said.
 

"This being our last home match, I am hoping for a good display," he added.

He further pointed out that the mid-table battle is very close with virtually nothing among four clubs.

At their own backyard, ONGC have kept table-toppers Churchill Brothers at bay apart from getting the better of second-placed East Bengal, defending champions Dempo SC and Salgaocar amongst others.

"The irony stays that we face several injury problems," Kashyap informed.

"Against Pune FC, we had several key players missing. The likes of Robin (Gurung), Kenistan, Bimal (Minz) will miss the tie. Sandeep Sanga is also out after picking up a knock in the last game."

Mumbai FC on the other hand, will be looking to enjoy the game and go with the flow.

"With two matches to go we have nothing to aim. We have saved relegation and have played decent enough. At present, we are preparing for the next season. We will field some youngsters in our remaining two matches," Mumbai FC coach Khalid Jamil said.

Both the teams have 30 points from 24 matches.

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First Published: Apr 19 2013 | 6:10 PM IST

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