ISL News: Baljit Singh Lauds Fikru After Kolkata's Triumph, While Ralte Feels NorthEast United Were Unlucky

Atletico De Kolkata forward Baljit Singh praised his strike partner Fikru Teferra's performance following his side's 2-0 win over NorthEast United in their second Hero Indian Super League fixture at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.

The Ethiopian striker, who became the first player to score in the ISL following his goal against Mumbai City at the Salt Lake Stadium, added to his tally by again finding the net against NorthEast United.

And Baljit, who himself would have scored in Guwahati had it not been for an excellent save from NorthEast United goalkeeper Alexandros Tsorvas, feels Fikru has been "brilliant" for Atletico de Kolkata so far.

"He had a brilliant first game and brilliant goal and he has carried this form into this game. He's just been absolutely brilliant and we show a lot of faith in him," Baljit told ISL's official website.

Baljit feels the preseason camp in Spain has helped Kolkata a lot, and has been the main reason for their good performances in the inaugural Indian Super League campaign.

"We had a very good preseason in Spain so it's really helped us a lot to cover the pitch and play the full 90 minutes," added the striker.

"We have been practicing together for a good one-and-a-half months so the combination is good with the Spanish players, African players and also the Indian players. We are mixing and gelling well and it shows in the performance."

Also, Baljit feels Atletico de Kolkata have been lucky to work under a passionate and experienced manger like Antonio López Habas.

"He is a very good coach and he is also a very good man. He always encourages us to fight and never give up," added the forward.

Finally Singh feels that Kolkata will be a tough opponent for any team, having already signalled their intentions in the Indian Super League.

"We can be a tough challenge to anyone in this league and we will fight," said Baljit.

Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC defender Zodingliana Ralte feels that his side were unlucky to lose at home against Atletico De Kolkata, especially having played well in the first half.

"The game was a little tough with not too much luck going our way. We had a lot of chances, but just couldn't make the most of it. But we did play well," Ralte said.

NorthEast United captain Miguel Garcia missed out on the game due to an injury, and Ralte feels his absence made a lot of difference.

"He is the captain and a very important figure in the defence and we missed him a lot. Hopefully he should be back for the next game," he added.

The defender says that his side are hoping to make a strong comeback in their next fixture against FC Goa on 19 October.

"I hope we bounce back. I believe we can. Today, we played better than last game, but just fell short. We will play even better in the next game."