PANAJI
An outright result with a bonus point in an away fixture after a debacle at home against Pondicherry who were without a point until the Porvorim game required an extra special performance from Goa.
To play under challenging conditions in Palam against Services required a marked improvement across the departments of the game and the collective effort reflected in the outcome with Goa notching up their second win of the season, in their penultimate Ranji Trophy Elite 'C' group fixture on Friday.
Speaking to The Goan after their second away win in their last three matches, Goa head coach Mansur Ali Khan sounded pleased. "We went back to the drawing board after the last game (nine-wicket defeat to Pondicherry), sat down, took note of where we were lacking and ensured rectifications. We were pepped up before this (Services) game, to perform and the hunger was evident in the game," he stated
On the positives from the win, the coach said, "Eknath Kerkar in getting a 150 odd was outstanding, then Darshan Misal getting a five-for in the second innings, and taking the responsibility as a captain. All the fast bowlers did well, especially Vijesh Prabhudesai who took seven wickets in the match on a slow, low surface. Vijesh came into this game as a third pacer but took responsibility as a top bowler. Arjun Tendulkar bowled his heart out. Manthan Khutkar in only his second game played like a pro. Mohit Redkar's batting in the second innings and at a point in the game where we needed someone to accelerate, get the lead and provide support to Kerkar was commendable. Our fielding in the second innings was outstanding with brilliant catches taken."
