Margao, Nov 17 (IBNS) Sporting Clube de Goa are keen to heap more misery on United Sikkim Football Club and turn their own form around when they meet at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Sunday.
Sporting Clube have just four points after five matches in the I-League and their 2-3 loss against Mumbai FC, after taking a two-goal lead, hit them hard. The hosts are now aiming for a change in fortunes and see United Sikkim’s low morale as an ideal opportunity.
“United Sikkim will be reeling under that shock defeat against Prayag United but we must be careful. This is after all a team that defeated Salgaocar at home,” said technical director Alex Alvares.
“Against Mumbai FC (in the last game), we had done well in the initial stages but suffered after a player was sent off. I believe three points were there for the taking,” said Alvares.
Sporting started with a fearless draw against East Bengal at home and then an away victory against Shillong Lajong, but have lost three out of their five matches. They suffered due to the absence of foreign players but with three foreign slots already filled, Sporting will be raring to go.
“We should start winning and not stay at the bottom of the league ladder. A couple of victories should do the trick for us,” said Alvares.
United Sikkim were hammered 1-10 by Prayag United, prompting Baichung Bhutia to take over as the interim coach and relegate Belgian coach Phillip de Ridder.
Bhutia will be the first player-cum-coach in the I-League but it could not be confirmed if the former India captain will be ready to take the field against Sporting. He was out of the last match due to suspension.
United Sikkim kickstarted their campaign with a stunning win over former champions Salgaocar Sports Club but have since failed to sustain that early momentum. They have four points in their kitty at the end of the fifth round.
