I-League: Sporting Clube de Goa ready for Dempo challenge

The high flying Sporting Clube de Goa side take on Dempo SC in the I-League at the Duler ground in Mapusa on Saturday afternoon at 3.30pm.

“A combination of rhythm, intensity and speed will ensure we are victorious in the Panjim derby,” remarked Sporting Clube de Goa coach Oscar Bruzon.

Apart from Dawson Fernandes who is out with a long term knee injury, Joyner Lourenco (ankle), Stephene Barretto (knee), Joseph Pereira (hamstring) and Mackroy Peixote (groin) are all doubtful for Sporting Goa. Cajetan Fernandes also missed practice on Friday due to illness, but Oscar has kept the door open for him.

Meanwhile Sporting Goa midfielder Rowllin Borges is missing the game due to suspension having clocked-up four yellow cards.

Despite the absentees, Oscar is confident his team will succeed, “Dempo are a young side and combine well, but if we play to our full potential and give 100%, then we will take home the three points,” stated Oscar.

The Flaming Oranje are currently fourth in the standings with 18 points from eleven matches, while Dempo is eighth with 12 points from the same number of games.

This season the teams have met twice in the Goa Pro League. Sporting Goa won the first encounter by a solitary goal, while the second was a close 1-1 affair.

“We need to activate the right attitude and concentrate from the first minute. No time, No space for Dempo!,” signed off Oscar at the end of a light pre-match training session.