Kolkata: Title already in their pocket, Goan giants Dempo Sports Club will look to conclude their I-League campaign on a high when they take on United Sports Club at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Saturday.
The AIFF will hand out the Champions Trophy to Dempo SC after the final whistle while as a special gesture, the hosts would give the Goans a guard of honour ahead of the kick-off. The Goans star forward Ranty Martins is a doubtful starter, while Bello Razzaq will have to sit out in the home side due to a double booking.
When asked about the inspiration behind Dempo SC’s 5th I-League title, Coach Armando Colaco said, “It was a combination of good teamwork and excellent team management. We intend to end on a high.”
He signed off saying that it is nice that the players will play without any pressure and to be crowned I-League champions.
Dempo clinched the title when they played a goalless draw against East Bengal in their last encounter at home as they have an unassailable lead of 54 points, while the United have 42 points.
United coach Sanjoy Sen lauded his boys for performing consistently throughout the season and hoped that they would sign off with an upset win against the champions. “We have had a reasonable season so far. We remained unbeaten against the big teams like Dempo, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. We even defeated Dempo away at Goa which was a creditable result. We hope to repeat the feat again.” (PTI)