MAPUSA: Recently crowned Police Cup winner Tuff Laxmi Prasad Sports Club are all geared up as they take on newly promoted outfit Guardian Angel Sports Club in the inaugural match of the Goa Professional League, at Duler Stadium, here. The kick-off is at 4 p.m.
After finishing the last season as runners-up to Salgaocar FC, the Bardez outfit have spent wisely in the market to strengthen their squad and win the title this time round.
The Valentine Ezeugo coached side has roped in former India International Climax Lawrence which has boosted the morale of the youngsters in the squad.
The former Dempo SC star midfielder who won numerous accolades at The Golden Eagles made the switch from I-League side Mumbai FC after two seasons. Climax is joined from Mumbai FC by another known figure Nicolas Rodrigues, who can send in pint-point crosses in the box with his gifted left-foot.
The defence of the team is tough in its true sense with the inclusion of Micky Fernandes from Churchill Bros SC, former Dempo SC player Valeriano Rebello and veteran Remus Gomes.
They have also managed to rope in a couple of players from the Sesa Football Academy which includes Lusofonia gold medallist Lenstan Afonso.
On the other hand, it will be a real challenge for Guardian Angel SC to survive in the league after gaining promotion from the First Division with an unbeaten record.
The Riston Rodrigues coached side has managed to rope in former Dempo SC stalwarts Anthony Pereira and Nicolau Borges. They will heavy rely on their youth and experience to blend together as soon as possible to get results.
Their strikers include Gammy Costa, Alvito Moura, Malcolm Soares while they will hope their defence made up of William Colaco, Roy Rodrigues, Richard Fernandes, Joaquim Carvalho, Jos Vaz combine well in protecting their citadel.
The Goa Pro League will be a 10-team battle for supremacy and the winners will be awarded Rs 2.5 lakh. The runners-up will have to be content with Rs 1.5 lakh.
Unlike last season, the league will be played in a home-away format with the Championship League and Relegation League played after the first round matches being scrapped out.
