Atlético de Kolkata’s workhorse striker Baljit Sahni put in a typically energetic shift up front today, and was nearly rewarded for his efforts with a goal. Only a stunning reflex save from NorthEast United FC’s keeper Alexandros Tzorvas kept the Punjabi forward from getting off the mark in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL). Nevertheless, he was all smiles after the game while chatting with indiansuperleague.com.

We saw you run the entire pitch today. What sort of energy drove you?

We had a very good pre-season in Spain so it’s really helped us a lot to cover the pitch and play the full 90 minutes.

How well is the team getting to know one another?

We have been practicing together for a good month and a half so the combination is good with the Spanish players, African players and also the Indian players. We are gelling well and it shows in the performance.

What are your thoughts on Fikru Teferra Lemessa? He’s been sensational in both games.

Yes he has! Fikru had a brilliant first game and a brilliant goal. He carried that form into this game. He’s been absolutely brilliant and we show a lot of faith in him.

How did you deal with the away fans because they were clearly not in your favour?

When you play away games, you are playing against the fans of the other team as well but we scored the goals and got the job done.

What does the ISL mean to you on a personal level?

Personally, I’m really looking forward to it because it’s a competition where I can give my best and so can every Indian player. They now have a chance to prove themselves.

After two games, would you call yourselves title contenders?

We can be a tough challenge to anyone in this league and we will fight.

What are your thoughts on your coach Antonio López Habas because he seems to be very passionate?

He is a very good coach and he is also a very good man. He always encourages us to fight and never give up.

Finally, how geared up are you for the rest of the tournament?

As I said before, we had a very good pre-season in Spain. The strengthening exercises, running exercises have helped me a lot and the coach shows a lot of faith in me and I think I’m repaying the coach’s faith.