Ajit John
ajit@herald-goa.com
Churchill Brothers’ head coach, Dimitris Dimitriou, displayed a calm sense of purpose as he prepared himself for what could be the most significant match of his tenure with the team on Saturday. The team stands just one point away from securing the I-League title, requiring only a draw against Real Kashmir in Kashmir to achieve their goal.
Speaking about preparations for the match, Dimitriou said, “It is another day in the office, and we prepare as usual. The only addition is in the psychological aspect; otherwise, everything remains the same. The opponent is very tough. The boys have come from the lower level, and this is the first time they are so close to the ISL, so we are working on this.”
When asked to elaborate on the psychological aspect, he explained that it involved visualising different aspects of the game and mentally preparing for the crucial match. “These are all very simple things that have been done over the years,” he added.
Dimitriou described the mood in the team as excellent, with a strong sense of family and unity. The players, he said, were focused on making the occasion a joyous one for the club. When asked about the challenges he anticipated in the final match, he simply smiled and responded, ‘None’. His sole focus, he emphasised, was on securing the result needed to win the title.
Dimitriou dismissed concerns about playing in Kashmir, citing the team’s experience in similar conditions. “We have played in places like Shillong and most of the team was in the I-League last season, so there is nothing particularly surprising about the conditions,” he
stated.
The 21-member squad will be travelling for the match on Thursday, flying to Kashmir ahead of the crucial encounter. He also expressed gratitude to the club’s management, saying, “The family always takes care of the team’s requirements, ensuring the best food and accommodation.”
When asked about the key players he was relying on to turn the match in Churchill Brothers’ favour, Dimitriou refused to single out any individuals. “I have five fingers on each hand, and they are all important to me,” he remarked. “I will not go down that road. Everyone has to be ready, and I am happy that they are.”
Reflecting on the season, Dimitriou described it as a ‘great campaign’, particularly appreciating the strong support from fans in their last home match. “We were able to bring the people of Goa back to the stadium. The team played very well, and since the fourth game, we have been at the top. This band of players has rekindled interest in Churchill Brothers, and our patron, Churchill Alemao, is happy. The boys are playing for him, and their goal is to make him proud by winning the title,” he said.
When asked if he was satisfied with the team’s performances this season, Dimitriou was candid in his response. “I am never happy,” he admitted. “Self-improvement is important in every aspect of life. This team has played well, but there is always room for improvement. The young players are developing, and this team will only get better in the future.”
With the title within reach, all eyes will be on Churchill Brothers as they prepare to take on Real Kashmir in what could be a defining moment in the club’s history.