Golden Boot in sight but Roy Krishna focuses on ISL triumph with ATK Mohun Bagan

Defeating Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) final on Saturday to win yet another title with ATK Mohun Bagan is the priority for Fijian hitman Roy Krishna, even if that means he misses out on a second consecutive Golden Boot award after finishing joint-top scorer. 

The 33-year-old striker scored 15 goals in 21 games in his debut season last year. However, Chennayin striker Nerijus Valskis clinched the Golden Boot award, having played fewer minutes, with Krishna missing the chance to add to his tally in the final with an injury. 

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Krishna finds himself in a similar situation this season, tied on 14 goals with FC Goa striker Igor Angulo. And the Spaniard has the advantage, having played nearly half as many games. However, Krishna will have a chance to claim the award this year with a goal against a resurgent Mumbai City FC in the final at the Fatorda Stadium. 

But individual awards are secondary for Krishna, who would rather be crowned a champion of India’s premier football competition.

“I will try my best,” PTI quoted Krishna as saying on his chances of winning the golden boot. 

“But from day one, it’s been about the team. If I win the Golden Boot, it will be a bonus, but I want to do the best for the team and get the trophy.”

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Krishna’s contribution to ATK’s success far exceeds the 14 times he has found the back of the net this season. A key cog in coach Antonio Habas’ plan of attack, Krishna has laid seven assists for his teammates this season, second only to Mumbai City’s Hugo Boumous’ tally.  

That means the Fijian has been directly involved in 21 out of ATK’s 31 goals this season, or 67.74%, highlighting his importance to the side. 

While Krishna did not score in either of the semi-final games against NorthEast United, he set up all three of their goals across the two legs. He also registered the highest number of chances created in a match in ISL history in the second leg – 13. 

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ATK fans will be hoping for a similar contribution from the Fijian in the final at the Fatorda Stadium, where Habas’ side will have their work cut out against a fluid, attacking unit set by Spanish coach Sergio Lobera. And winning the title is of paramount importance for Krishna.

“For me, it’s whatever the coach wants from me,” he said. 

“I have a role in the team and I want to focus on that. I want to get on the scoresheet, if not, I want to get my hands on the trophy.”