I-League 2018-19: A look at the best forwards this season
What's the story
The I-League 2018-19 season is set to come to an end and it has been another spectacular ride for the players involved. Chennai City and East Bengal will fight for the title on the final game-week on Saturday. This season we have seen strong attacking display overall. Here are the best forwards of the I-League 2018-19 season.
Pedro Manzi
Chennai's Pedro Manzi has been top notch
Chennai City's Pedro Manzi has been a top entity for the the league leaders. The southern outfit smashed in the most number of goals this season (45) and Manzi has contributed with 20 strikes alone. The Spaniard has been a revelation for Chennai in his debut season. He has also scored four hat tricks this term, and that made the difference in this season.
Willis Plaza
Willis Plaza displayed a strong individual show this term
Churchill Brothers are in the race to finish third or fourth this season. It has been a strong display by the club as forward Willis Plaza came to life. The former East Bengal player, who scored 11 goals in 2017-18 season, is in race to earn the 'Golden Boot'. He is tied with Manzi (20 goals). Plaza's growth in I-League has been influential.
Jobby Justin
East Bengal's Jobby Justin played his part
Jobby Justin is set to miss the final game-week battle against Gokulam Kerala. The forward, who was crucial for East Bengal's resurgence this season, was handed a six-match suspension for an ugly spat with Aizawl FC defender Kareem Nurain earlier. Justin had a strong campaign for the Kolkata side after netting nine goals and making four assists. He will hope his side emerges triumphant.
Sandro Rodriguez
Sandro Rodriguez's brilliance has helped Chennai
Spaniard Sandro Rodriguez couldn't have asked for a better debut season in Indian football. The 28-year-old joined Chennai City last year and has played a crucial role in helping the side display some strong football. Sandro grew as the season progressed and he has nine goals from 19 matches. Notably, he also has five assists to his name and that highlights his consistency.
Dicka
Dicka did reasonably well for Mohun Bagan
Cameroon's Aser Pierrick Dipanda Dicka displayed his skills as a top forward. He has immense experience in Indian football and has been in the circuit for five seasons. Dicka scored an astounding 20 goals for Mohun Bagan last season and this time he followed it up with nine strikes that included one against Shillong Lajong on Friday. Notably, Bagan struggled for goals this season.