MARGAO
Key player Nickson Castanha of the State Santosh Trophy squad said the team has prepared well under the guidance of head coach Norbert Gonsalves and assistant coach Mario Soares and the goal is to return home with the trophy.
Castana said, "We have played a practice match against Salgaocar FC and won. Everything has gone well; the preparation of the team has been good. Our goal is obviously to win the trophy but at the same time we are looking forward to our first game (against Assam on December 28)."
“It’s a great opportunity for us to show our talent. We are well prepared and the boys are excited to perform well in the tournament. To be honest, I think, our squad is a very balanced one and our striking force, defence and waistline are in very good shape,” Castanha said.
Castanha, a defender who has represented the State four times, said there are several potential stars of the future in the side which has set a high standard for the current generation. “The guys are very talented. If we can play to our potential, we have a good chance to qualify,” he added.
Goa is drawn in Group III alongside Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Nagaland and Tamil Nadu in the tournament. Castanha, who has donned the colours of Dempo SC, Churchill Brothers and Calangute Association was confident that not only can his side progress from the group but they can also go on to win the tournament.
