Foreigners shine for Sheikh Russel

Sheikh Russel began their Walton Federation Cup campaign on a winning note as the former champions defeated Bangladesh Police 1-0 in the Group A opener at Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.

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Sheikh Russel began their Walton Federation Cup campaign on a winning note as the former champions defeated Bangladesh Police 1-0 in the Group A opener at Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.

Tajik defender Siyovush Asrorov got the all-important goal five minutes into the second half with a clever tap-in, giving Sheikh Russel hope of making it out of the group stages after their failure to do so in the last edition of the tournament.

Sheikh Russel followed the trend of most title contenders placing their faith on new foreign recruits by roping in three foreign players who have experience in Bangladesh and they repaid that through their performances.

Bangladesh Police, who had surprised everyone by reaching the semifinal of the tournament last edition, responded well after conceding but poor finishing denied them a share of the spoils.

The midfield duo of Obi Moneke and Baktyir Duisobekov, who previously played for Bashundhara Kings and Rahmatganj respectively, and former Rahmatganj defender Asrorov played key roles behind Sheikh Russel's winning start.