Santosh Trophy: Goa look to rebound against Karnataka

MARGAO
Goa will look to put their disappointing losses against Kerala and Odisha behind them as they take on Karnataka in the 76th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy at the Capital Football Arena, Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.

"We have put the disappointment of the last result behind us. The focus has shifted to winning the match tomorrow and it is a do-or-die battle for us. I can see it in the boys that they are motivated to prove that the results against Kerala and Odisha were aberrations," said head coach Norberto Gonsalves.
Karnataka, meanwhile, have collected four points after shocking Kerala and drawing against Punjab in Group A. Gonsalves feels that it would be a tough proposition against Karnataka though he has confidence that his boys will get the job done against the neighbours.
"Every team has come here to win. Karnataka are no different. They have momentum after beating Kerala and look a better side in this tournament with their aggressive approach. We are not taking them lightly at all. However, I am confident that we will bounce back as a team, and win," Gonsalves said. "Each one of us takes immense pride in representing the State. The disappointment against Odisha motivates each one of us to ensure that we go out there and do the job," the coach said. “We are well aware of their capabilities and are preparing likewise. The most important thing is that the boys are 100 per cent motivated, and have the belief that they can go all the way,” said Gonsalves.
Goa are at the bottom of Group A with no points from their two matches. Punjab, Karnataka and hosts Odisha lead the table with four points.