Bengal have once again established their supremacy in Santosh Trophy by winning the 65th edition by beating Manipur 2-1 in the final. Shabbir Ali's side managed to defend their title successfully to bring more glory for Bengal who have had the honour of clinching it from the 31st occasion.

“It was very difficult this timearound as we got very less time to prepare. I somehow managed to get players like Anupam Sarkar and Branco Cardozo at the last moment. Many players directly joined us after playing the I-League Division II," said Ali.

“The secret to our success is very simple. I believe in a philosophy to instill self belief and hard work. Moreover I ensured that we maintain good atmosphere in the dressing room," he added.

On being asked to compare the truimph of last season with the current one, Ali said, “We can never compare the two campaigns. Last year’s title was special as we won after almost a decade. This year we won despite having the most basic preparations.”

Often it's the players from other states who excel in Bengal's colours and play a major part in them lifting the silverware. It was Denson Devdas, who hails from Kerala, last time around while Branco Cardozo from Goa did the needful for Bengal this year.

“The basic principle is that the outsiders have to be better than our local talents or else they will never get a chance in the team. Moreover the regulations allows these players to play for Bengal so it is not a problem," Ali stated.

Shabbir Ali had earlier guided Salgaocar SC to clinch the National Football League in the year 1999. Years later, Salgaocar emulated the same under Karim Bencherifa.