Scoring early goals and then getting into a pleasing rhythm used to be the pattern of Dempos in the not so distant past. They used to be the masters of scoring in the first minute in the days when Armando, Babu, Jimmy, Mahesh, Francis, Dionisio and Nicholas were in their peak years. Defender Nicholas was very often instrumental in hitting the nylons with his thunderous and accurate kicking. That used to set the tone for the rest of the match and the boys used to messmerize the opposition and the spectators with their dazzling artistry and ball possession. That is what separates the very top team from the very good ones. Mohun Bagan and East Bengal too were known for such opening spells in their long history of achievements. Best wishes to all the participants in the remaining matches in the NFL. May the best of them be crowned the champions.
