Dempo to take on Air India in NFL today The Hindu News Update Service Saturday, January 21, 2006 : 0300 Hrs
Panaji, Jan. 21 (PTI): Dempo, who lost to Mahindra United, would be desperate to register their first win when they take on Air India in the 10th ONGC National Football League at Nehru Stadium at Fatorda. With two draws and a loss, today's tie is vital for Dempo as they need to collect full points to keep themselves among the top teams. Roberto de Silva, playing the role in the midfield has raised Dempo's game as the Brazilian pin-point passes to striker Ranty Martins, who scored the first hat-trick of the tournament, almost puttin mahindras on the mat. Winger Melvin Rodrigues has recovered from injury but the loss of defender Bolaji Majek and winger Sameer Naik due to injury will work in favour Air India, who will be looking at exploiting the situation with their speedy attack. Keeper Abhijit Mondal, who did not play well against Mahindras, is likely to be replaced with Satish Kumar by coach Armando Colaco of Dempo. Air India, who lost both their matches also need to win today to keep themselves away from relegation and upsurge their morale. Air India coach Bimal Ghosh, would make changes in the midfield following the team's defeat against Sporting Clube de Goa. "It was the referee who robbed us of the match as he denied us two clear penalties in the first half which could have put us 3-0 up at half-time and put the match beyond the reach of sporting club," Ghosh said. "A win tomorrow will raise the morale of the team who are inexperienced and lack concentration which have resulted in silly goals. Our boys need to remain more focussed till the end if we are to win today against a side who are more experience," stated Ghosh.
