PANJIM: Whilst the two teams –FC Goa and Mumbai City FC — battled at Fatorda on Sunday, it was rather an emotional outing for a young Goan lad Sahil Tavora –who had some fond memories in the FC Goa jersey last season.
“It felt great to be back in Goa playing in front of my family and friends at the Fatorda Stadium, where I have some great memories and it feels even better to play against a club that I have fond memories from last season,” expressed Sahil Tavora following their 4-3 win over FC Goa on Sunday.
Sahil Tavora, a former Gaur, played six matches for FC Goa last season under coach Zico, and scored two goals including the 94th minute match-winner against bitter rivals Chennaiyin FC which has been remembered by many. Though it wasn’t the best season for FC Goa, the players and the fans had their very own best moments in the ISL season three.
“I would be lying if I said I didn’t think about that goal I scored here last season. But before kick-off, I was just running through the instructions from the coach in my head and staying focused on the game like I always am before the start.
After making his debut in the ISL last season playing for Gaurs, Sahil Tavora was picked up Mumbai City FC in the ongoing season. Tavora, playing his third match in the league for the Mumbai City (second start for the club after his first start against Bengaluru FC, way back in November), was seen playing in much deeper position than his usual place. Despite in a new role, the midfielder came up with his best performance so far in the league.
“It was down to the coach who asked me to do a job for the team in this position and I was happy to contribute. It was tactical and I took it up as a challenge and it was a great result for us in the end,” explained Sahil, describing his contribution towards the team’s victory.
Mumbai City FC did the double over FC Goa in this season following their 4-3 win on Sunday. Sahil revealed that his gaffer Alexandre had done his homework and prepared them for the match against FC Goa.
“Yes, we came here to get the three points right from the start. We worked on a different formation to combat FC Goa’s strengths and to hit them on the break which worked well. It was a special night and a cracker of a game with a great result for us in the end!” he concluded.
