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Bank challenge for Abahani

Sports Reporter
Abahani look favourites to regain the Qub Cup hockey title when they take on rank-outsiders Sonali Bank in the final today. The fined will kick off at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium at 4pm.
Sonali Bank entered the final following a stunning 2-1 semifinal victory over Usha Krira Chakra while Abahani edged last edition's champions Mohammedan Sporting Club in the tiebreakers after the high-voltage and temperamental first semifinal between the two archrivals ended in a 1 -1 draw.
Abahani coach and former national captain Mahbub Harun, however, thought there was no chance to take Bank lightly.
"Yes, we expected to play Usha in the final but the bankers come as a surprise. In fact, they have played a great match against Usha and deserve a place in the final," said Mahbub.
Pre-tournament favourites Abahani, with a score of national stars and a solid squad, did not look that good against a very young and less experienced Mohammedan in the semifinal and Mahbub said that his players might have had suffered from complacency.
"May be our players took them lightly because of the opposition's lack of experience at this level. But I think they have learned their lessons.
"There is no way we can take things for granted in a final Bank have proved they are a strong team by coming this far. There main strength is the offence where the three-four young guys did really well."
When asked whether he was taking his side as the favourites to win the curtain raiser tournament of the season, the former midfield general said he was positive.
"I think we are favourites and we will go for win. But that doesn't mean we will take it easy. We have to shrug off the lethargy we had shown in the semifinal," added the sky-blues loyal.
Sonali Bank's veteran captain Ashiquzzaman said his side will enjoy the advantage of having better fitness in the team's first ever final of a major tournament
"Physically, our players are fitter than any of the teams. That is one of the reasons we beat Usha in the semifinal," said the former national midfielder.
"Our team spirit and confidence are also high and we are in a better position to win tomorrow. Abahani are a very strong side but we have been consistent throughout the tournament," said Ashiq, whose only loss was to Mohammedan in the group.
"Against Mohammedan, our young players failed to pick up the tempo but match by match, they have improved. I believe we can rely on them."
Bank have Prince Junior and Rimon, who struck the match winner against Usha, in attack while national players Nannu and Biplab and seniors like Shishu and Ashiq would definitely be a headache for Mahbub Ehsan Rana's Abahani, who will depend on the strike force of Jimmy and Shuvo, the guile of midfield ace Musa and penalty comer specialist Chayan.
Chief Adviser's Special Assistant for Youth and Sports Mahbub Jamil is expected to be the chief guest in the final.