MARGAO
Former I-League champions Churchill Brothers are aiming for a strong performance this season as they kick off their campaign with an away match against Shillong Lajong FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.
Aditya Barros, General Manager and coach of Churchill Brothers FC, emphasized their focus on securing three points in the opening match. “Our goal is to win every match this season. We want to go as far as possible in this tough tournament,” Barros said in an interview with The Goan Everyday.
Barros also acknowledged the challenge posed by Shillong Lajong FC, calling it a tough match. “We are fully prepared for a strong challenge from Shillong Lajong. I-League matches are always tough, and this one will be no different. The team that makes fewer mistakes will win,” he stated.
Excited about the upcoming season, Barros added, “Lajong FC is a tough side with a strong domestic record, and we must avoid mistakes against them. We want to start this special tournament on a positive note.”
Addressing concerns about the tight schedule, Barros assured that physical fatigue wouldn’t be an issue for his squad, but emphasized the importance of mental readiness. “Physically, the players are well-prepared and used to the demands of competitive football. The real challenge will be the mental aspect, and I’m confident the team is mentally prepared to perform strongly,” he explained.
After a disappointing season, Churchill Brothers are looking to climb back to the top with a revamped squad. The Red Machines finished 7th last season, plagued by inconsistent performances despite having standout individual players. This season, former TRAU FC head coach Dimitris Dimitriou takes charge, with the aim of competing for the title.
The team has undergone significant changes, including the departure of key players Louis Ogana and Martin Chaves. To fill the gaps, they have brought in experienced foreign players such as Kurtis Guthrie, Juan Mera, Pape Gassama, Aubin Koukou, Wayde Lekay, and Mattheew Dunga. However, the departure of goalkeeper Subhashish Roy leaves the team with young replacements in goal. Key performers from last season, including Lamgoulen Hangshing, Nishchal Chandan, Stendly Fernandes, and Lalremruata Ralte, remain part of the roster, strengthening the squad further.
The team is expected to play a fast-paced style of football, bolstered by the addition of swift wing-backs, midfielders, and wingers like Faisal Ali and Phrangki Buam. Additionally, the loan signing of India U-20 captain Thomas Cherian will add depth to their defense. While building chemistry between the new players will be a key challenge, Churchill Brothers are determined to perform well this season, with a solid preseason and a strong squad ready to challenge for the title.
