MARGAO
Sesa Goa Football Academy head coach Charles Dias voicing his disappointment in Saturday’s goalless draw against Kerala United FC, remains confident that his team can bounce back in a crucial matchup against Garhwal Heroes FC in the I-League 3, at GFA Duler Stadium, Mapusa, on Monday.
The head coach, who led the team to a runners-up finish in the Goa Professional League, is determined to view this draw as a minor setback and is confident of securing a place in I-League 2.
“The result was not what we hoped for after a good start and a one-goal lead,” said Dias. “We did not succeed in maintaining the advantage in the first half against Maharashtra Orange in the opener and thus ended in a 2-2 draw in our first match.”
Sesa Goa head coach Dias was left to rue his side’s missed chances. “I’m not satisfied with the team’s performance. In football, if you don’t take your chances, you won’t win,” said Dias.
Sesa Goa Football Academy knows that a loss means their chances of survival will take a major blow with just one match left to play. Dias acknowledged the setback but remained optimistic about the team’s chances, noting that with one match still remaining in the qualifiers, there is ample opportunity to turn things around. He stressed the necessity of securing a win against Garhwal FC tomorrow, emphasising that getting back to winning ways is crucial for regaining momentum.
“It’s an important match for us, and our goal is to return to the top again. All our focus is currently on the match against Garhwal Heroes FC, and I hope that the team will be ready and all players are fully prepared,” said Dias, who guided Goa to the runners-up position in the Senior National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy.
Garhwal Heroes FC team manager Nithin Nair said it will be a difficult game against a very good Sesa Goa Football Academy team. “They are a well-organised side with talented players and good quality,” Nair added.
Garhwal Heroes FC have 3 points, while Sesa Goa Football Academy have 2.
