Tarun Sangha’s turning the dark horses this season hasn’t been missed by anyone who’s been following the DSA senior division league. Seven points from three matches, and they are sitting pretty at the top of Group B that includes the likes of Simla Youngs, Indian Nationals, and Hindustan FC.

Also not to be missed both because of their names and performances on the field is the Nigerian duo of Henry Chukwukere Npuririm and Figo. The pair has shared all the five goals Sangha have scored with Henry netting four and Figo scoring one. Unlike their celebrated European namesakes, however, there have been a lot misses too.

But nobody is complaining until things are drifting otherwise. In fact, this is the first time in two years that Sangha had the luxury of playing two foreigners, both forwards. “The only foreigner we played last season was Charles. He moved to Simla Youngs this year,” says coach Anadi Barua.

The decision of roping in an able substitute and a companion was to avert confusion at the goalmouth. “We were looking for two foreigners, both forwards, this season. The way they build on a certain move is different. Foreigners generally like taking long-range shots, which is a rarity among today’s Indian footballers. Their main advantage is their physique and reach. On a turn with the ball they can take along two-three defenders at a time. Being Nigerians, communication is not a problem. They have a played a big part in our journey so far,” Barua adds.

His only concern now is a niggle Henry is carrying and his positioning with his compatriot.

Untiring show

“They are often falling back on the same line at the position of attack which isn’t advisable. Then again, this perhaps happened due to Henry’s injury,” the coach says.

But for a club whose ranks are crowded with members past their prime, the Nigerian pair brings a sigh of relief as well. “I brought them (Henry and Figo) from Kolkata this season. Their advantage is their stamina, something we lack at this stage. Indian players can be gifted and better skilled in comparison, but when it comes to playing untiringly while maintaining a certain level, they are way better,” says Tarun Sangha skipper Arup Sarkar.