AIZAWL: Aizawl FC will take on Shillong Lajong FC in the much anticipated North-Eastern derby at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on Saturday. After the conclusion of game week 7, the Reds are stranded just above Aizawl FC on the league table with 7 points while the hosts have amassed 2 points fewer having played 1 match more.

Aizawl FC recently parted way with Manuel Retamero Fraile, who was at the helm since the Mizoram Premier League and now they have appointed Jahar Das, who has been the Head of Youth Development, for the interim period.

Thangboi Singto said in the pre-match press conference, "Although we have scored only two goals so far, we have created quite a few good opportunities." He also asserted that his team will try to score an early goal against Aizawl FC who are poised to start their journey under a new coach.

He also continued, "It is always tough to play away matches but we have to lift our performance. We have to know our strengths and weaknesses. We must be in the top six in order to avoid relegation."

Lalrammuana, the linchpin of Lajong midfield, also expressed his desire to win the humdinger, "We have nothing else in mind than winning tomorrow's match."

Jahar Das, the interim coach of Aizawl FC, sounded upbeat ahead of his debut as the head coach, "We might reshuffle our strategies to get a much-needed win." He didn't forget to mention that they have to get things right to avoid the relegation on their first Hero I-League campaign itself, "We must win our home matches to come out of the relegation zone."

David Lalrinmuana, Aizawl FC skipper, didn't hide an intention to clinch all three points tomorrow, "I am really excited for the face off. We'll try our best to snatch a win tomorrow."

The North-Eastern derby will be telecast live and exclusive on Ten Action from 2 PM.