Russell in search of season’s fourth title

“Forget the past. It’s a new one and you have to win it too,” was the message from Sheikh Russell Krira Chakra coach Maruful Haque to his players during their practice sessions for the Super Cup. Sheikh Russell won an unprecedented treble this season by lifting the Federation Cup, The Independence Cup and the coveted Bangladesh Premier League. Now they are focused on their fourth triumph - the money spinning Super Cup, scheduled to kick-off from June 14 at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.   Upon their arrival in top-flight football in 2003, Russell claimed the runners-up trophy in the now defunct premier league once while they finished third on three occasions in the professional league. However, Russell stunned all their competitors this season as they picked up all available titles. Maruf relished the opportunity of playing an all local tournament. “I think the players are motivated to prove their worth. It would be a platform of reducing the number of foreign players. The local players I think will put a good show in the field and the tournament will be a very competitive one and will showcase Bangladesh football,” he said. “What we have won in the past, is past. As a professional footballer they have to be in their best in every tourney they play. I have asked my players that they have the ability to win another title that will showcase their talents. Winning three is a past and now the players are ready to win the Super Cup and they are getting ready for it,” added Maruf. Maruf said he has always relied on the local players and has also received the dividends. “We played the Federation Cup with three foreigners when the others inserted four. I always believed in my local players and they have also returned the faith. I think only Sone Norde’s absence will be felt, but we have the back-up to fill it. Maybe it will not be 100 per cent, but it will be close.” However, despite being the number one side of the season Maruf is not stating his side as the favourites as there are other teams who can spoil the plans.  “All the teams will be eager to play their best and any slip may lead to failure,” added Maruf.