MARGAO
Goa Football Association president Dr Caitano Fernandes is confident of a good show from Goa in the 77th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy as the State team takes on Chhattisgarh in the campaign opener at SAG Trinity Ground on Monday.
Goa are clubbed in Group 1 with Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat. Fernandes interacted with the Goa team and encouraged them to do well in the tournament.
“I hope that you are all prepared enough for the championship. I am sure you are all doing well and are fully ready to take on Chhattisgarh in your first game. Physically and mentally, you can deliver the results," Fernandes told the players.
"You have had a lot of top-level matches in the Goa Pro League. With the work you have done in nine months, I am sure you are fully prepared to take on these teams. Make Goa proud of you.”
Addressing the press, the GFA president said the team under the tutelage of Derrick Pereira is capable of creating history. "We are happy to have Derrick Pereira as the coach. He has vast experience and I have full confidence in his abilities. Under Derrick's stewardship, the team will give their best," Fernandes said.
Dr Fernandes said Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and Sports Minister Govind Gaude will attend the opening match in the evening. He disclosed that there is no entry fee for the spectators.
Anthony Pango, GFA vice-president (South Goa), urged the fans to turn up in large numbers to support the team. Meanwhile, team manager Sanjiv Nagvekar was all praise for the facilities provided by the GFA for the preparatory camp.
Jonathan D'Souza, GFA vice-president (North Goa), also spoke about the importance of the tournament for the team. Schubert Furtado, GFA treasurer, and GFA Executive Committee members Patwin Fizardo, Andrew Ferrao and Cosme Olveira were also present during the press conference.
