MARGAO
Goa captain Jovel Martins lauded his team after qualifying for the main round of the 76th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy.
"It has been a great journey. From second spot to the top spot, we climbed the ladder slowly and it was a combined effort from coach Norbert Gonsalves and the support staff, and most importantly the boys that helped us to secure a place in the next round," Martins told 'The Goan' following his team's 3-0 win against Tamil Nadu.
"At the start of the championship, my expectations were high because the team was in the rebuilding stage, having youth and experience. But these players exceeded my expectations," said Martins, has played for Sporting Clube de Goa, FC Goa and Churchill Brothers.
The Goa captain said the team went through a rough patch when they drew with Uttar Pradesh 2-2. "The pitch (in the match against UP) was not in good shape and was the reason for the negative result. We played five matches in 10 days and did not get enough time for recovery," Martins said.
Martins said the qualification for the main round was the just reward for the hard work put in by the team. "I congratulate the boys for the hard work they have put in during training and we have got the reward finally. Now, we will look to carry on the winning momentum in the main league and qualify for the semifinals."
Meanwhile, Martins saluted Dr Caitano Fernandes, president of GFA, who came to Assam to motivate the team. "He motivated the boys and his encouraging words helped us give our best. He reminded us the stake was high and his extra motivation encouraged the players to play their hearts out. He played a crucial role in keeping the team going," Martins concluded.
