MARGAO, JAN 2
An unknown enemy is more dangerous than a known one and that’s why coach Vincent Subramanian was a trifle circumspect as Churchill Brothers prepared to face AIFF XI in a seventh round encounter of the 4th I-League at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Monday at 3.45 p.m.
Churchill Brothers have been one of the most balanced side in Indian football apart from special player Odafe Okolie. Churchill have ten points from six matches while AIFF XI have seven points from the same number of encounters.
Although, Subramanian is banking on the home advantage, he thinks that there are two important things required from his team to script a win. “We have to convert chances and stay focused throughout the match. AIFF are a good team and have young players in their rank. I am confident that my boys will go all out for a win. We want nothing short of a win,” said Subramanian.
“This is our home match and we are looking to grab full points. The back four Rowilson Rodrigues, Denzil Franco, Robert Lathlamuana and Dinesh Thounaojam are holding the fort. I believe my team will have to pull up their socks and play hard consistently if they are serious for the title,” stated Subramanian.
While Odafe Okolie and Kayne Vincent will shoulder the responsibility to hunt for goals, Lalit Thapa will take charge under the bar. The strikers can expect to be fed by Lenny Rodrigues, Israil Gurung, Charan Ria and Zakeer Mundampara.
AIFF XI may have not produced some spectacular performance but have shown improvements under Englishman Desmond Bulpin. There may not be major transformations but there is new confidence and the coach draws solace from two wins from the fact that his boys managed a decent performance so far.
“The spirit in the team is good and I hope they carry it into the match on Monday. It is never easy playing against a team like Churchill Brothers and I am aware that Churchill are a good side but we have set our own goals and though we know that we have an uphill task, we will fight for a win here. I am confident that my boys will give a good account of themselves on Monday,” concluded AIFF’s coach.
