Keen tussle for supremacy expected

Thrissur, April 18: A keen tussle is on the cards when hosts Kerala take on last year’s runners-up Goa in the first semi-final of the 56th Senior National football championship for Santosh Trophy at the Muncipal Stadium here on Wednesday.

Kerala, who holds an edge over Goa, has the added advantage of the home crowd support. It heavily leans on the shoulders of Ignatious Sylvester and young striker Ashif Saheer. Vijayan, who had undergone a surgery in his knee, did not play in their opening match. He played in the midfield and defence in the other matches. His new role as a medio would certainly boost the morale of the team.

Kerala’ defence was very poor in their earlier matches. Despite Jo Paul Anchery’s presence, the defence cracked under pressure in several encounters. Kerala defenders should come up with something extra-ordinary to contain the speedy Goan strike force of Alvitor D’Cunha and Francis Silveira.

Goa have a strong defence manned by Anthony Pereira and Robert Fernandes. The attacking capabilities of Venkatesh and Roque Barreto could break the Kerala defence. Juje Siddi’s presence under the bar should increase the team’s confidence.

The match starts at 6.00 pm.