Team Herald
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MARGAO: Dempo SC will look to build on their recent form when they take on Shillong Lajong FC in their upcoming I-League 2024-25 fixture at the Nehru stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday, at 4.30 pm.
The Golden Eagles enter the match following a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Namdhari FC at home. Seigoumang Doungel gave Dempo the lead before halftime, but Namdhari FC responded with goals from Akashdeep Singh and De, turning the game in their favour. However, Dempo's latest signing, Marcus Joseph, had an immediate impact, scoring a crucial equaliser to salvage a point.
Head coach Samir Naik was full of praise for the Trinidadian forward, who quickly adapted to the team. “I took a chance, and it clicked. It felt like he had been with us for six months already. He slotted straight into the team, combined well with the players, and adapted quickly thanks to his experience in Indian football,” Naik said.
Meanwhile, Shillong Lajong are in high spirits after a dominant 4-0 victory over Sreenidi Deccan. Marcos Silva netted a brace, with Kenstar Kharshong and Renan Paulino adding to the tally in a commanding display.
Despite Dempo’s mid-table position, Naik remains optimistic about his team's progress. “The boys are getting used to the ground now, and our confidence is growing. In our last four games, we’ve only dropped a couple of points. There’s a lot of positivity in the camp, and with everyone available, we’re ready,” Naik stated.
Currently, Dempo SC sit eighth in the table with 18 points from 14 matches, while Shillong Lajong are in fifth place with 22 points. In their previous encounter, Dempo secured a 2-0 victory at the Polo Grounds in Shillong.
Naik emphasised the importance of the upcoming fixture in Dempo’s push for a higher finish in the league. “Whenever we take the field, we aim to win. It’s about keeping ourselves in the race for the league. If we win tomorrow, we’re back in that mix,” he concluded.