By IANS
Margao : Salgaocar Sports Club coach Savio Medeira has challenged his side to prove they are “good enough” to rub shoulders with the best in business with a strong performance against Mumbai’s Mahindra United in a sixth round clash of football’s I-League here Wednesday.
Salgaocar, who have only two points, are yet to grab a win in five games, three of which they have been played at home. For most part, the former National Football League champions have looked ordinary, yet Medeira is confident that his side can start winning and silence the critics when the face the Mumbai outfit at the Nehru Stadium here.
“We just need one win and I guess that will happen against Mahindra United,” Medeira told IANS after training here Tuesday morning.
“Our standing (in the league) is not a true reflection of our strength. We had some great chances in previous matches. I thought we deserved at least a draw in some of our matches, but now we need to make amends,” said Medeira.
For Salgaocar, Nicholas Rodrigues is expected to return on the left of midfield after being “rested” for the last match against Viva Kerala. On the right, Shylo Malswamtluanga remains a doubtful starter with an ankle injury, but his replacement – Francis Fernandes – should be good enough to step into his boots.
Apart from the two changes, Medeira is expected to go with the same squad, continuing to show faith in Nigerian striker C. Felix and Kenyan striker Boniface Ambani upfront.
“Mahindra have a strong attack, but their defense remains suspect. If we can score early, and then shut shop, we have a great chance,” said Medeira.
Mahindra coach Derrick Pereira, meanwhile, insists his team will not underestimate Salgaocar as the Mumbai side attempts to seal their second win on the road.
After three draws on the trot and an embarrassing 1-5 loss to Churchill Brothers at home, Mahindra United finally came good against Sporting Clube de Goa in the last match.
“The last win gave us a lot of confidence. We hope to continue with our winning ways,” a relaxed Derrick said.
Mahindra’s Ghanaian striker Yusif Yakubu and defender N.P. Pradeep are yet to get fully fit, after weeks on the sidelines. But even though the duo will be included in the team for the Salgaocar clash, Derrick is unlikely to risk either of the two at the start.
“We will ask them to take the field, only if needed,” Derrick disclosed.