'I didn't feel that we were nine men': Prabhsukhan Gill on Mohammedan SC draw

Nine-man East Bengal FC showcased ir unrelenting grit and utmost determination for more than an hour as y registered a hard-fought point against Mohammedan Sporting Club in Indian Super League (ISL)'s Kolkata derby at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday.

Red and Gold Brige were two men down inside opening half as Nandhakumar Sekar and Naorem Mahesh Singh were sent off in 29th and 30th minutes, respectively. Moreover, Kolkata-based side became first team to concede two red cards in first half in league's history.

pressure was paramount for Oscar Bruzon’s men to defend ir goal for almost 70 minutes in such a high-volt fixture. However, East Bengal FC tackled all odds stacked against m with a strong performance as y defended like tigers to snap ir six-match losing streak and secure ir first point in ISL 2024-25 season.

“We kw that we haven't won a single game in ISL; that was only motivation,” Gill said in an exclusive interview to indiansuperleague.com after ir heroic defensive performance against Black and White Brige.

East Bengal FC goalkeeper expressed his cordial gratitude to ir faithful fanbase for ir undying support and unwavering passion throughout entire game. Gill ackwledged that all players were positive and motivated eugh to turn tides around and cope with all difficulties.

“When we went to halftime, we were all positive; only one talk was re that we h to fight toger, and that's all we could do,” he stated.

“We were alrey nine men, and I think I didn't feel that we were nine because fans were just amazing because y supported us for 100 minutes, and we are very fortunate to have such big fans,” he continued.

While quizzed about ir defensive resilience despite being two men down against ir city rivals, Mohammedan SC, Punjab -born footballer answered,

“I don't think I will ever forget this moment because, with nine men since 28th minute, I don't think any team in ISL have done this before or maybe even in or leagues.”

“From 28th minute, nine men fighting for a point in such a big ground like Salt Lake, t even a short ground, just amazing,” he ded.

Following East Bengal FC’s 0-0 draw in Kolkata derby, Gill has registered his first cleansheet in ongoing season. goalkeeper, who was arguably at his best against Black and White Brige, me five crucial saves and has been outstanding with his sharp outings and quick reflexes.

However, Gill thanked his teammates, who fought tooth and nail, thwarting Mohammedan SC’s attacking moves to finish game on level terms.

“As I said, I didn't have to make many saves in second half, so all credit goes to those eight warriors who fought in front of me and Im very happy at least for one point,” Gill remarked.

former Golden Glove winner was optimistic about delivering positive performances in upcoming matches after overcoming initial setbacks.

“Hopefully, in coming games, you will see East Bengal FC fighting for more points,” Gill signed off with a positive te.