Margao, Dec 3: Durand Cup Champions, Churchill Brothers is looking to end Dempo SC's unbeaten run at home when they lock horns against them tomorrow in the 8th round of the I-league in what could be high voltage derby as they look to seize the opportunity to close the gap on Dempo.
Dempo got a incredible start winning all their seven matches to lead the table with 23 points from all wins will play without eight of the regular players who are doing duty for India in the onging SAFF Cup at Delhi.
We had requested to AIFF to postpone the game as we will be missing half of the team against another title contender Churchill Brothers who are placed third with 14 points, but their request has been turned down by the AIFF.
We cannot do anything but faced the reality and field youngsters Brain Mascarenhas, Shallom Pires and Romeo Fernandes in their absence.
“Its going to be a tough game. But we have to look forward to it and treat the match like any other game. We want to win the game,” stated Armando Colaco, Dempo's coach.
“If you want to be the champions you got to beat the big team and pick points against other teams who are in and around you and above you. Its a big game for us,” stated Colaco.
Churchill are placed third after one loss with 14 points from seven matches have put up a moderate performance in their last seven matches as they lack the firepower upfront and creativity in the middle in the absence of playmaker Roberto Silva who is all set to return tomorrow after being sideline from injury for most of the matches.
Churchill Brothers coach Manuel Gomes who is going to field his full strength team is pleased that Dempo will be missing eight of their players.
“It's a good opportunity for us to take full advantage and win tomorrow. I know they will be a bit at disadvantage but they have a good bench strength to fill the void and we have to play at our best,” stated Gomes.
