Kolkata: An uphill task awaits Salgaocar FC against Mohun Bagan in their second leg of Federation Cup’s quarter-final round to be played at the Barasat Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday.
Salgaocar showed their potential in the first-leg as they almost pulled off an upset as they came back from a goal down to take the lead, but were not successful in walking away with the victory. Mohun Bagan rallied in the second half to take advantage of a worn out Goan side and were able to grab the equaliser and a match-winner in the last 10 minutes of the game.
While speaking in the pre-match press conference that took place on Wednesday, Salgaocar striker and skipper Darryl Duffy stays confident and feels that they can repeat a similar performance and bring home a much needed win.
“We have scored against this side here & we have scored back at home against them. I don’t see why we can’t do it again,” the Scottish striker said, as they are in much need of the crucial away goals.
Sakgaocar coach Mario Soares has done his homework and said, “We have planned, our boys are positive & are going to fight for it & we will not leave without giving out best to win this game”.
He reiterated what the importance of keeping a positive attitude that was displayed by the team back home, “If we play the way we did in first half at home and remain strong in defence, I don’t see why not.” Soares added
Duffy echoed what the team’s thoughts were about Mario taking over, “He has been here for the full season, he knows all the players well & it is not like a new coach has come from outside and seeing us for the first time.”
The visitors will be missing the services of defender Keenan Almeida after he pulled his hamstring in first leg and midfielder Gilbert Oliviera, who is recovering from his illness.
Mohun Bagan Head Coach Sanjoy Sen is not taking Salgaocar threat lightly as he said, “Salgaocar is a good team and always have been a tough opponent; their style of play is very strong and have a strong squad.” He also remarked, “We too are consistent and the players are eager to give their best. I am not thinking for a draw. Tomorrow we have to give our best on the field.”
Sony Norde, who missed the first leg due to injury is fit to start tomorrow. The gaffer added,” I will speak to Sony tomorrow morning and then decide on him.”
Sony Norde himself is confident enough to start as he said, ” If I don’t play, injuries will keep hunting me. I cannot just sit and watch. I will play.”
There should be some relief for the hosts as thier star performer Sony Norde is set to be back in the starting XI after missing the first leg due to injury.
Meanwhile, Sen also feels that they needed to take lessons from Aizawl FC trouncing Bengaluru FC away from home yesterday and believed that the Marines would need to play at their best to guard against a wounded Salgaocar.
“Salgaocar are two goals behind and that means they will be all the more hungry to come back. So we have to be at our best,” he added.