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Bhutia shines in Bury's victory

Indian football ace Baichung Bhutia was on the field only for a short while, but he made his presence felt as Bury beat Tamworth 2-1 in English FA Cup Division II replayed match at Gigg Lane on Tuesday.

Bhutia was introduced into the game at a desperate stage for the Shakers. An early Cup exit loomed large as Bury trailed amateur side Tamworth 0-1. However, the team moved into overdrive following his arrival - equalising with four minutes left and going in front in extra-time.

Bhutia laid off passes, flicked on long balls, found space and discovered good positions in the area. Baichung could have scored his first Bury goal on Tuesday, but when the opportunity came his way he chose to feed teammates instead.

After replacing Paul Barnes in the 77th minunite, the Indian star set up a chance for Adrain Littlejohn seven minutes later, but the latter failed to score. However, Bury equalised a minute later when Chris Billy scored to take the match into extra-time. Bury got the match-winner in the 95th minute when Bhutia put Lutel James through to score.

Indeed, Bhutia is adhereing himself to the Gigg Lane crowd with his battling qualities. The pint-sized striker is quick to challenge players for the ball and Bury fans appreciate his tireless effort. If the form of top goalscorer Ian Lawson continues to deteriorate, then Bhutia can expect an extended run in the team shortly.

Baichung does not seem to be frustrated, yet, at his continuing absence from the starting line-up. He is the first to accept that more work needs to be done on match fitness and acclamatising to the English game.

However, it is becoming more and more clear with every game he plays that Bhutia is a class act, and Shakers boss Neil Warnock must soon realise this - a handful of substitute appearances is surely not enough for Bhutia to make sufficient progress.

In a recent interview for the Manchester Evening News (Monday, November 8) Baichung admitted to missing his homeland and girlfriend, and has moved into a new flat near the Gigg Lane ground.