VASCO, May 11: Dempo Sports Club have had their worst of campaigns in the I-League and as they prepare for the concluding match against Salgaocar Football Club all that they want to do is end on a high at the Tilak Maidan, Vasco, on Sunday.
Dempo have slipped out of the top three for the first time in five years and have now settled for the third spot.
“This has been a terrible campaign. I cannot point a finger at anyone but our performance is there for all to see,” said Dempo assistant coach Mauricio Afonso.
Dempo are without a win in nine matches and Afonso, former India captain, said it was imperative that they manage the win in their concluding match.
“There is no other option. It’s necessary to win against Salgaocar,” said Afonso.
Dempo will be boosted with the return of their regulars as a full-squad is now available. Except for midfielder Godwin Franco, who will sit out with four bookings, the former I-League champions will welcome the likes of Samir Naik, Debabrata Roy, Climax Lawrence and Rowilson Rodrigues, all of whom have been unavailable for recent matches.
Salgaocar, too, want to finish on a high and coach Peter Valles is confident that they can continue with their winning run in the I-League.
“We have done well in recent matches and want to finish on a winning note. For many, this match might only be of academic importance but there is lots at stake,” said Valles.
Salgaocar will miss the services of Singapore midfielder John Wilkinson who has returned home due to personal reasons. All other players are available.
“I am trying to field a squad of young players with some experience,” said Valles.
Players like Augustine Fernandes, Nicolau Colaco, Gilbert Oliveira and Randeep will be among the starters. Fulgancio Cardozo is unavailable through injury.
Dempo have slipped out of the top three for the first time in five years and have now settled for the third spot.
“This has been a terrible campaign. I cannot point a finger at anyone but our performance is there for all to see,” said Dempo assistant coach Mauricio Afonso.
Dempo are without a win in nine matches and Afonso, former India captain, said it was imperative that they manage the win in their concluding match.
“There is no other option. It’s necessary to win against Salgaocar,” said Afonso.
Dempo will be boosted with the return of their regulars as a full-squad is now available. Except for midfielder Godwin Franco, who will sit out with four bookings, the former I-League champions will welcome the likes of Samir Naik, Debabrata Roy, Climax Lawrence and Rowilson Rodrigues, all of whom have been unavailable for recent matches.
Salgaocar, too, want to finish on a high and coach Peter Valles is confident that they can continue with their winning run in the I-League.
“We have done well in recent matches and want to finish on a winning note. For many, this match might only be of academic importance but there is lots at stake,” said Valles.
Salgaocar will miss the services of Singapore midfielder John Wilkinson who has returned home due to personal reasons. All other players are available.
“I am trying to field a squad of young players with some experience,” said Valles.
Players like Augustine Fernandes, Nicolau Colaco, Gilbert Oliveira and Randeep will be among the starters. Fulgancio Cardozo is unavailable through injury.
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