Bengaluru FC coach Ashley Westwood was all praise for his band of debutants who created history by winning the I-League title in their maiden season here today.
Bengaluru FC, who has been consistent throughout the tournament, clinched the title with one match remaining.
"The boys worked really hard, with the victory near they kept on working hard and finally we were rewarded," Westwood said.
Needing a win to win the title ahead of other established teams, Bengaluru led from start to finish and emerged 4-2 winners.
They scored through Sean Rooney (2nd), Robin Singh (56th), John Menyongar (79th) and captain Sunil Chhetri (90+7).
Dempo reduced the margin through Roberto Silva (82nd) and substitute Romeo Fernandes (89th).
"We looked pretty comfortable at 3-0 lead but a stupid free kick from Beto found the back of the net and than they reduced the margin and put the pressure before Sunil Chhetri's stoppage time goal gave us a comfortable 4-2 win in the end."
The win helped the Southern club accumulate 44 points and take an unassailable lead with one round still to be played. The likes of East Bengal and Salgaocar Football Club will play for the second and third spot.
"Fans came all the way from Bangalore to support the team and if not for their support things would have not happened. It was a fantastic effort and everybody including my wife also supported me and I am happy in the end to win the title," stated Westwood.
