TEAM HERALD
sports@herald-goa.com
VASCO: Churchill Bros are prepared for a “strong fight back” from defending champions Dempo as they make a definite push for the I-League title as the two teams meet in a 24th round I-League match at Tilak Stadium, here, on Wednesday. The kick-off is at 6.30 p.m.
Churchill Bros are just six points away from the title with four games in hand and technical director, Subhash Bhowmick believes they have the stomach for a fight at the business end of the championship.
“I am under no illusion that we will have an easy game against Dempo, despite all their problems. They are a champion side, they have great consistency and they can never be underestimated,” said Bhowmick.
Churchill will miss the services of Brazilian midfielder Roberto Mendes da Silva (Beto) but Bhowmick expects his other midfielders to rise to the occasion and do the job. “Beto is an influential player but I have other players who can do the job. They must shoulder responsibilities now,” said the Churchill technical director.
“Three points from this game will do our title chances a world of good but I do not want to lose this game. A little point here and there will be good too. There is no way we can afford to lose this game,” said Bhowmick, whose team next plays Mohun Bagan twice in successive games.
Dempo have lost five matches in-a-row. It has been their worst run in recent times but coach, Mauricio Afonso believes his team can rise to the occasion. “I told the boys not to think about the past. They have to think ahead. They believe they can defeat Churchill and prove themselves for the remainder of the three matches,” said Mauricio.
Dempo will miss all four of their regular stopper-backs as Mahesh Gawli, Rowilson Rodrigues, Prathamesh Maulingkar and Cressan Antao are all missing either due to injuries or suspension.
“I cannot complain as injuries are part and parcel of a footballer’s life. I will have to make do with whatever we have,” said the Dempo coach.
