FC Goa finally secured their first win of this season’s Indian Super League as they won 4-3 against SC East Bengal in a goal-fest. Alberto Noguera scored a brace for the Gaurs whereas Ortiz made no mistake from the spot to hand Juan Ferrando’s men their first points from this season.
Juan Ferrando was under pressure as FC Goa lost their first three matches this season. Therefore a win for a change will ease that pressure slightly. However, they still have a lot of work to do as the Spanish tactician wants to remain calm even after their maiden win.
“For me, I am happy for our fans, the players and the coaching staff because they are working so hard. After losing three games it was difficult. But, I am happy for them. In my mind exists the last three games and this is the time to improve primarily about the last three games, ” Ferrando began at the post-match press conference.
While Goa scored screamers on the ground, Ferrnado uncharacteristically did not celebrate any of the goals. He rather had a more serious look on his face indicating the pressure on him due to the early defeats. However he said that he was deep in discussion with his assistant, Clifford Miranda. He also added how the team needs to keep their calm and not take any stress.
He added, “It’s very important for us to keep calm and to connect with the players like no stress. The game is 90 minutes and it’s very important to put attention in these moments.”
The Spaniard also chalked out a different plan for the Gaurs against SC East Bengal. They went with a three-man backline with Seriton Fernandes and Saviour Gama playing as wing-backs providing width. Speaking on the change in tactics, Ferrando added, “The tactics was because we had some problems in build-up in the last games and in transitions, we decided to help one player more in build-up.”
However, he added that their win against the Red and Gold Brigade was more about their psychology than tactics.
Muhammed Nemil created a lot of hype for him for all the right reasons as he was fantastic in the Durand Cup for FC Goa. However, he suffered an injury and missed the start of the ISL season. But now he is back and came on as a substitute in this game. Speaking on Nemil’s growth, Ferrando highlighted how he aims to make an environment in Goa where young players can grow and flourish.
“Normally its very easy to help Nemil. Last season we helped Devendra and now he is in the lineup. I think it’s very important to control the atmosphere, to control the pitch, the rest of the players and step-by-step, in case of Nemil to make sure he has more playing time day-by-day,” Ferrando concluded.
