History got written on Monday night 7th March 2022 as Jamshedpur FC lifted the Hero ISL  League Shield (2021-22) after defeating ATK Mohun Bagan in an intense game. An ecstatic coach, team and fans are overjoyed and cannot wait to enter the next crucial phase of the league i.e semi-finals. 

Ahead of the first leg vs Kerala Blasters FC, midfielder  Jitendra Singh talks about his growth as a footballer, the feeling of being a part of the semifinals and more. 

Here are the excerpts: 

Thoughts on the historical match vs ATK Mohun Bagan 

It was a tough match because ATK Mohun Bagan are one of the strongest teams. Each one of us gave our 100 % , plus ATK Mohun Bagan's main injured players too had returned to play this match so that was one of the pushing factors for us to perform  apart from the fact that we were competing for the shield which in itself became a motivational factor for us. So yes, we gave our all, and it was a great feeling to grab up all the 3 points, plus this got added into my professional career as well, this prestigious trophy. 

Thoughts on entering and battling in the semifinals for the first time

This is a crucial phase for us. Our first target was to achieve the Shield and we did it. Now, our sole focus is on the next match against Kerala Blasters. They are a good side and they have been playing excellently this season, so yes, we have to get back into things and start focusing on our next target i.e our semifinals. 

Talk about your professional growth as a footballer

Working with Owen Coyle has given me the required time to grow. I want to thank him because I know that while I am doing well, I believe I can do even better. I just want to keep improving with every passing game and remain consistent so that I can be better in the future tournaments as  well. I want to say thanks to Jamshedpur FC as well for giving me the opportunity to perform for the club in this league. 

Approach for the semi-final legs vs Kerala Blasters FC

As I said, Kerala is a strong team and we have felt that during every encounter be it a preseason friendly or during the season. It has never been easy and they have always given us a tough fight and we fully respect that. But now our focus will be on how we prepare ourselves for this big match because I fully believe that if we maintain our form, we will be able to win the 3 points.