Derrick Pereira: Playoff chances are doubtful now

by Aryalok Maithilesh February 2, 2022

FC Goa had to wait till the final minute of the match to bag an equalizer on Tuesday when they took on Odisha FC. While the draw offers some relief to the team, it may not be enough in the grand scheme of things where the Gaurs are targeting a top-four spot and a place in the Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs.

The Gaurs have 15 points from as many games as of right now. With just five league games remaining, they have to depend on other teams’ results as well to see if a top-four spot is available.

“Our playoff chances are doubtful now. It is very, very tough unless the top teams drop points in their remaining games,” said head coach Derrick Pereira in the post-match press conference. He, however, also opined that the result against Odisha FC was a relief.

“We got at least a point before we head into our last five matches in the league stage. It would have been disappointing if we had lost this game, especially because we went in with an intent to do well. We created a few chances that we couldn’t convert. The team, in general, did their best,” the 59-year-old explained.

“However, some players still have to step up, in terms of their individual performances. They have to deliver more than what they have, so far.”

Coming up next, a good interval

FC Goa’s winless run also stretched to five games on Tuesday thanks to the draw on Wednesday night with their most recent victory coming against Chennaiyin FC on January 8 – the team they meet next. And Pereira hopes that their upcoming break would help the players to get refreshed.

“Our next game is in nine days. We have to use this time to go back to the drawing board and see what we can do to get back to our winning ways. That is the thought on everyone’s minds.

“In every game, we put in our best efforts. As a team, we’re always looking to hold on to the ball and keep creating chances, and we’re usually successful. But somehow we end up losing or drawing. We have a good break now, so hopefully, the players will utilize this time to refresh themselves,” the tactician signed off.

Credit: FC Goa Media

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