Both sides featured some bright talent. There were Salgaocar FC’s Devendra, Chaitan, Ribhav while FC Goa had Liston, Hayden and couple more. But in the 1-1 draw there was one player –Leander D’Cunha, who gave his everything.
Originally a midfielder, Leander plays as a defender for FC Goa and has been terrific in their back. His leadership qualities were quite visible on Wednesday against Salgaocar FC, the youngster didn’t give till the final whistle.
Being a goal down from the second minute, Leander tried to bring pace in the game as he continuously pushed his team to pressurise the opponents.
He showed his penchant for making late runs into the box to finish off moves and almost scored the equaliser in the 88th minute when he beat the offside trap and drivingly connected a Hayden’s cross only to direct it in keeper’s path.
But the team effort finally paid off when Sweden scored the equalising goal.
Leander’s presence in the back line gives their side confidence and boost to face experienced side.
