Margao, Feb 11 (PTI) A close contest is on the cards as defending champion, Salgaocar is looking to keep their unbeaten run in the last ten matches intact as they take on Sporting Clube de Goa tomorrow in the 20th round of the I-League, played at Nehru Stadium here. Salgaocar, who have not lost a match in their last ten matches leap frogged to third place with 33 points from 19 matches and are looking for a win tomorrow to march forward in defense of their title. "A victory at this stage is important as it will take us closer to Dempo who are leading the table with 40 points. My boys are playing well and have maintained consistency so far and I am hoping they maintained the same for the remaining matches to keep our chances alive to retain the title," stated coach Karim Bencherifa. Sporting are also have a good run like Salgaocar having remained unbeaten in the last seven matches to place themselves to eight place with 30 points from 19 matches. Sporting are aware of the challenge they are going to face against the defending champion who are highly motivated. We are ready for the battle and looking for a win to keep our winning momentum going, Technical Director Alex Alvares said. We have beaten Salgaocar in the first leg. But this time it is going to be different as Salgaocar are looking a better side who are playing well on the flanks. It is going to be a close contest and who ever dominates the midfield and converts the half chances will emerge winners, he said. PTI MCS DK MGS
