FC Goa Head Coach Derrick Pereira instructing the team against the NorthEast United.
2019 ISL champions FC Goa have struggled in the 2021-22 season with three wins, four draws, four losses and are placed ninth on the league table.
FC Goa head coach Derrick Pereira addressed the team's form, the impact of the increased number of Covid-19 cases before their bout against the Red and Gold Brigade.
"I have told this time and again before, the circumstances under which we are operating are tough. The only times most players are getting out of their rooms is to either go to the training or for a game," stated Coach Pereira.
"It’s not up to me to decide whether we should postpone the league or carry on. What we can care for are our players. The health of everyone in this organisation is important, and that’s the most important thing," he added
While discussing the team's ability to score key goals and finish games as victors, Pereira said, "I won’t use the word disappointed but the results are what we are expecting after putting in good efforts and good performances. We need to score those chances. Especially in the last match, we had some clear-cut chances. We should have finished those and we should have got three points. But as a coach, we keep working hard and trying our best. Like I said earlier, I am happy with the way all the players, the whole team have stuck together to put in good performances."
Speaking on the Gaurs' opponents, Coach Pereira added, "The last three matches we have seen them play, they have improved a lot. They have a fighting spirit in them despite being at the bottom. They are sure to play for their pride.
"We have to look at the details of our own teams, though, instead of looking at them–where can we get better, how to break their backline and at the same time keep it balanced to counter their attacks. We go into the game positive. We have to have a plan and get the best result," he added.
FC Goa will take on the 11th seeded SC East Bengal at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim.