Churchill fancied

MARGAO, FEB 13: Spirits among Mahindras ranks seemed dull even on Valentine’s eve, the thought of proving themselves as no push-overs ran strongly in the squad. That was coach Dercyk de Souza’s opinion before their date with Churchill Brothers in the Philips National Football League (NFL) at the Nehru Stadium on Saturday.

Finishing with the wooden spoon in last year’s NFL, Mahindras today have five points from 11 outings, three of them coming from their inaugural encounter with JCT. Churchill, on the other hand, have the best opportunity to cash in on three points which are possible only if they convert the chances they get.

A clear indication of the lack of application was seen in their previous match when they squandered a penalty in the dying moments, courtesy Anit Ghosh against Dempo.

Story continues below this ad

For Mahindras “all is not lost yet” feels De Souza. “We may not have scored goals, but the opportunities created have been innumerable.” He added, “We are a demoralised lot today. Once we concede a goal, our boyswilt into submission, which is what I have tried working with them. Unfortunately that has not worked”.

The coach dismissed the thought of relegation. “We have got seven games to go and an odd game here and there could definitely remove the jinx.”