Goa Super League: Three teams battle for title on final day

Panaji: The Goa Super League is set for a three-way battle for the title as Dempo SC, Sporting Clube de Goa, and Salgaocar FC stand a chance to emerge champions on the final day.
Defending champions Dempo, who need a win in the concluding league clash, thought they would be in prime position as their match was scheduled to be played at home. However, the Goa Football Association has now scheduled the all-important clash against FC Goa’s developmental team at the Tilak Maidan, Vasco.
As per GFA’s letter dated March 24, Dempo were supposed to play at their home ground, Dempo Football Academy, Ella. However, the association sent a revised list of fixtures on March 28, informing them that the match has been moved to Vasco.
“How can professional teams prepare in this manner, if the venues are changed just two days ahead of a crucial clash,” asked a Dempo official.
Sources said the match was moved to a neutral venue after Sporting Clube de Goa lodged a formal protest. The club maintained that it was unfair to hand Dempo the home advantage when two other clubs were in contention for the title.
Dempo are currently at the top of the standings with 27 points from 14 games. Sporting are just a point behind them, while Salgaocar are third with 25 points.
Dempo and FC Goa met most recently in the I-League Second Division where Brian Faria scored the winner for Dempo. Earlier, in the Goa Professional League first leg clash, the teams played out a 1-1 draw.
“I believe all the teams are equal in the league. We have a good chance. Goals will come. I trust my boys to give their best,” Dempo coach Samir Naik told TOI on Thursday.
Sporting will want to win their clash against Churchill Brothers at Duler Football Stadium in Mapusa, and hope Dempo drop points.
On the other hand, Salgaocar need nothing less than a win against Calangute Association and hope the other two results turn in their favour.
“We have to play, we have to win. The mood is good in the team and we are confident. We must keep our hopes alive for the title,” said Salgaocar coach Anthony Pereira.
ACTION TODAY
Salgaocar FC vs Calangute Association, Ella ground; Dempo SC vs FC Goa, Tilak Maidan, Vasco; Sporting Clube de Goa vs Churchill Brothers FC, Duler Stadium, Mapusa. Kick off 4pm