ISL 2020-21: In-form but depleted FC Goa face stern challenge as they take on SC East Bengal

Margao: A determined SC East Bengal will fancy their chances as they take on a weakened FC Goa, who are set to miss the services of their two first-choice central defenders in their Indian Super League match on Friday. FC Goa have been unbeaten in their last six games, winning thrice, and will have momentum on their side. But when they face SC East Bengal at the Fatorda Stadium, they will face one of their toughest tests as they will likely be without Ivan Gonzalez and James Donachie. While Gonzalez was sent off in the 1-1 draw against Kerala Blasters, Goa suffered another huge blow as Donachie limped off. Besides, Goa will also miss the presence of coach Juan Ferrando on the touchline after the Spaniard was suspended against Kerala. However, the absentees are not a concern for assistant coach Clifford Miranda, who feels Goa is heading in the right direction. “The most important thing about this team during this period (unbeaten run) is the adaptation to the new coach,” he said. “From ones (that were there) to the players that he got, it’s never easy. Step by step, we are moving towards our objective and the way the coach wants the team to play.” The last time these two sides met, 10-man SCEB held Goa to a 1-1 draw and the highlight of the game was Bright Enobakhare’s stunning solo goal. The Nigerian has since then made a major impact in all games, despite Robbie Fowler’s side netting the least goals this season (11). But that doesn’t mean Goa will be focusing on Bright alone. “He is a good player, there’s no doubt about it and has improved SC East Bengal since his arrival but there’s no such plan as to stop one player because if we start concentrating on him, there are nine other outfield players who can hurt us,” said Miranda. “We will play the way we play.” SCEB will be keen to bounce back after seeing their seven-match unbeaten streak being broken by leaders Mumbai City FC. Despite ending on the losing side, the Kolkata side dominated possession and was alive in the game right until the end. With Goa’s key players absent, SCEB assistant coach Tony Grant believes they can certainly fancy their chances against their in-form opponents. “It’s certainly an opportunity (to get back to winning ways),” said the former Everton and Man City midfielder. “This season we lost our captain (Danny Fox) early on and it doesn’t help. Every team is gonna hurt when you lose two of your better players.” It remains to be seen if India defender Adil Khan, on-loan from Hyderabad FC does make his debut for the Gaurs. Adil’s teammate from his parent club, Subrata Paul, brought in with a similar agreement, is in line to make his red and gold homecoming after 12 long years.