ALLAN VALENTINO D’CRUZ
allan@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Things have gone from bad to worse for FC Goa this edition. This is among the worst starts the Gaurs had in ISL. The pressure’s piling up. And now the ‘wounded’ Gaurs travel to Tilak Stadium for a clash against East Bengal on Tuesday.
FC Goa coach Juan Ferrando will be hoping to put an end to a run which has seen them lose three games on the trot, leaving them grounded on the points table.
FC Goa’s defence had always been a concern in the past. The cracks were already showing on the pitch in the first two games but nothing changed in the third either. Things continued to worsen.
This year, Juan Ferrando failed to bring in stability in the backline as none of the players seemed to be getting the acts right.
Going forward, things aren’t better either. Though they showed attacking glimpses, the goals were missing in the previous games. A side, which was once known to be the most attacking and feared team in the league, now managed to score just two goals in their last three games. Their biggest strength has now turned into their worst fear.
While the team is struggling on the pitch, can Juan Ferrando get the Gaurs in control against East Bengal?
Speaking ahead of the clash, Juan Ferrando stated, “I think the opponent is difficult at this moment because personally, the most important opponent for us is FC Goa itself,” stated Ferrando who added that his side would need to keep control of the game and stay calm in tight situations.
What would make the fixture even more interesting is the fact that Gaurs are yet to get three points from East Bengal as both their previous fixtures ended in draws. However, there are some positives for Gaurs. The Kolkata team form is even worse. They haven’t won a game in their last eight ISL fixtures.
“We have to be in control of the timing of our game because they’ll be waiting for the opportunities, waiting for us to commit fouls, waiting for our distractions, so it’s very important not to repeat the same mistakes,” expressed Juan.
FC Goa played better football having made some changes in the line-up. The team showed determination with the change and the stats speak about it. However, it’s the win that matters for the coach now.
“It’s not about whether the game was good, or if we created enough chances, it’s about the win, about the three points, which is of utmost importance for us,” explained the coach.
FC Goa usually played a 4-2-3-1formation, but a change in tactics cannot be ruled out in today’s game as Ferrando would be desperate to get the three points.
“My point of view is that the team should be ready for the next game. Go in with a clear mind and forget the past because it’s a difficult moment in the dressing room for the players. For me, the most important thing is the psychology, to be ready for the next game.
Upon being asked about his preference for foreign players and his relationship with those at FC Goa, Juan said: “The connection is good. They know but it is not because they are Spanish. Last season, we worked together. It’s the same team, no change.”
SC East Bengal however, have two points from four games while Goa are yet to open their account.
