PANJIM: FC Goa suffered their second defeat in the Hero Indian Super League after going down 0-2 to Mumbai City FC, in their away game, on Sunday.
Despite the defeat, The Gaurs still occupy the top spot in the standings but the scoreline at DY Patil Stadium, in Navi Mumbai could have certainly got worse if not for the heroics of goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani, who rightly received the swift moment of the match award for his fine saves at crucial moments.
The previous two meetings between the sides in the inaugural edition did not provide any results after goalless draws. Although, FC Goa enjoyed two victories on the trot after overcoming NorthEast United FC (3-0) and Kerala Blasters FC (2-1), it wasn’t surprising to see legendary Brazilian Zico’s outfit go down to the Nicolas Anelka side after injuries to key players. In the circumstances, a draw would have been a great result for the visitors to keep their morale high.
FC Goa’s defence has always been vulnerable, with or without marquee player and 2002 Brazilian World Cup winner Lucio, who missed the third successive tie due to injury.
His replacement, Luciano Sobrosa worked tirelessly and gave a good account of himself at age 36 but the Brazilian was left wanting once again when Gabriel Fernandes, the former FC Goa player now cherishing his role under Anelka, delivered a perfect cross that led to the penalty which was eventually converted by India international Sunil Chhetri.
The Goan franchise has 10 points but the statistics are a major concern as they have conceded eight goals and scored nine times. Moreover, FC Goa have an poor attacking index in the first session of their two previous matches and seem to get into the rhythm only in the second half.
After a goal down at the break, Zico should have introduced Joffre Gonzalez on resumption but it was too late when the Spaniard made his entry in the 53rd minute after former West Ham United striker Fredric Piquionne headed in the second goal of the evening in the 48th minute. The goal was conceded from a set piece and looked as an easy training routine for Mumbai City FC as the rival defence was left wanting, once again.
Unlike the Kerala Blasters FC tie, introduction of MandarRaoDessai and Romeo Fernandes also did not pay dividends as FC Goa lacked the fight to crawl their way back after two goals down.
With only four shots on target compared to Mumbai City FC’s 12, striking is another concern for FC Goa which they have to seriously address before taking on Pune City FC at home on Friday.
Speedy striker VictorinoFernandes, who is on loan from Sporting Clube de Goa had a glorious opportunity to prove a point after being included in the starting eleven. The 26-yeard old troubled the rival defence with his timely runs but all that mattered was finishing, which could not be seen by the talented Victorino.
Football is all about scoring goals and Zico rued the chances his lads gave away.
