Mohun Bagan Super Giant forward Jamie Maclaren reckons Kolkata derby is one of the biggest fixtures in Asia. MBSG has enjoyed an upper hand against East Bengal FC whereas Mohammedan SC have been introduced in the ongoing season of the Indian Super League after they won the I-league.
Meanwhile, Jamie Maclaren has scored two goals in six matches he has played in the ongoing 11th season of the tournament.
“I missed all the pre-season because of a serious injury that caused me a lot of pain. I didn’t think I would play in the first ten games,” Maclaren told RevSportz.
The experienced striker played in the Kolkata derby for the first time after joining the team.
Reflecting on the occasion, Maclaren said, “Knowing that I was playing in these big fixtures, you could see the fans around the streets all talking about the derby. Obviously, I was getting to a point where I was fit enough to play, and the week before, I had scored against Mohammedan SC with my head, which has caused me problems.”
Further adding on the epic rivalry, the Australian said, “Look, it’s a fixture that’s the biggest in India, one of the biggest in Asia.”
“I’ve watched it previously before I’d signed for this football club, and it was just an amazing feeling to be a part of a derby game. But to get us off the start with a nice goal and many more derbies to come, you can’t be playing in front of 60,000,” he added.
Speaking on the history of the club, Maclaren said, “The history speaks for itself, but also, I know a few players that have played here (MBSG) in the past, not only now but also in the previous years. They’re the most successful, and I think something that I did in Australia was winning trophies. I want to be a part of a team that’s always consistently striving for greatness, and that’s why I’ve come here.”
“It’s a huge club, a huge organization. The city lives and breathes football. There’s no better feeling than walking out into a stadium in our home games, whether we’re playing a big derby or a smaller game. Whatever is in our minds, it’s always about winning and having a high standard. The fans have high expectations, and that’s something that comes with getting 30,000 plus nearly at every single game, which is important. And that’s what I want to do. I want to play,” he explained.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face Jamshedpur FC at home on 23rd November after the international break.
