Russel take on Tertons today

Struggling Sheikh Russel are looking forward to ending the AFC Cup play-off qualifying campaign on a high by winning their last match against Bhutanese club FC Tertons at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu today.

Sheikh Russel are in second position with one point -- one behind leaders Tatung FC of Chines Taipei -- and have no alternative but to win against the third-place home side if they want to qualify for the play-off round for the second-tier club tournament in Asia.

Sheikh Russel played comparatively well against Tatung FC with the inclusion of four guest players and took a deserved lead but they surrendered the lead ten minutes before the final whistle. Tatung FC had earlier held FC Tertons to a goalless draw in the Group C opener.

“After watching the match between FC Tertons and Tutang FC, it seemed to me the Tertons are a comparatively strong side, comprising 10 national players. I think the match will not be an easy one for us but we are ready to give them a fight as we want to qualify for the next round,” Sheikh Russel coach Maruful Haque told reporters over phone.