Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Dempo Sports Club will look to end their home campaign on a high as they take on Real Kashmir in their final I-League fixture at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Saturday.
Reflecting on the season, head coach Samir Naik acknowledged the team's growth in their return to the I-League.
“It’s a mixed reaction. We could have done better, but overall, I think we performed quite well. It was my first season as a coach in the I-League and for many of my young players. It was their debut season too. We’ve gained valuable experience and I’m confident we’ll be stronger next year,” Naik stated.
Their opponents, Real Kashmir, come into this fixture after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Delhi FC, with Mohammad Inam and Gnohere Krizo finding the net. Delhi’s lone goal came via a Hridaya Jai penalty.
Naik also acknowledged the unwavering support of Dempo SC’s fans, despite their reputation for being more reserved.
“Dempo SC fans are silent supporters, but they always have our back. Even at Fatorda, we’ve had large turnouts, and they’ve always believed in us. I know they’re behind us, and hopefully, we’ll see them again in full force next season,” he expressed.
Heading into this crucial clash, Dempo SC sit ninth in the standings with 25 points from 20 games, while Real Kashmir hold third place with 35 points from the same number of matches.
Naik assured that his team remains fully focused. “We’ve approached every game with the same mindset and this one is no different. The boys are charged up and ready,” he concluded.