AIFF Media Team
After a torrid start to the season that saw them register two points in five matches, the Red Machines have kicked into form recently — recording consecutive victories against Mohammedan Sporting (2-1) and Sudeva Delhi FC (2-0). Winning the three points against a solid RoundGlass Punjab side would not only be a tremendous boost in momentum, but it will also propel them into the top half of the league standings and set them up well for a further push upwards.
However, they will have their task cut out against the visitors, who began the season with an unbeaten run of four games at home and subsequently bounced back from a defeat away to TRAU (0-2) by ending table toppers Real Kashmir’s unbeaten run with a fine victory (1-0) in Srinagar. Should other results go their way as well, getting the three points in Goa could see them go level with the league leaders and with one extra game in hand.
The teams produced two cracking encounters last season, with RoundGlass Punjab coming back from behind to steal a 2-2 draw in the League Phase and Churchill winning 2-1 in the Championship Phase.
At the pre-match press conference, Churchill’s assistant coach Mateus Costa hailed his team’s spirit. He said, “Our season was a little scattered initially but credit goes to the boys as they worked really hard together and are gelling up well now. The team spirit is high. RoundGlass Punjab are a strong opponent with a good mix of young and experienced players. It will be a tough match tomorrow. The title is not out of sight and we are focused on fighting for it.”
Goalkeeper Albino Gomes said, “It feels good to get a clean sheet in the last match and such performances are important in order to win matches as well as titles. We are ready for tomorrow’s game.”
RoundGlass Punjab head coach Staikos Vergetis stated that he expects another difficult game. “Our last match was a tough one and the players were excellent in both defence and attack. We were well-organised and stuck to our plans, and it is a motivation for us for the next game. All games in this league are challenging and tomorrow, we have another difficult fixture against a tough team with quality players,” he said.
Midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma said, “So far, we have done well this season. However, we know that it has just started and we want to keep working hard and reach the top position. Churchill Brothers are a strong team but we will work as per the coach’s plan and fight to get the three points.”
The match between Churchill Brothers and RoundGlass Punjab will be broadcast live on Eurosport and Doordarshan Sports and streamed live on the Discovery Plus OTT platform.
