Bambolim (Goa): Bengaluru FC interim head coach Naushad Moosa said the former champions would expect a tough encounter against Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League on Wednesday.
The Blues halted their run of defeats with a draw against NorthEast United FC last week, but with the Blasters picking up their only two wins of the season in their last five outings, Moosa maintained that his side would have to be at their best to take something away from Wednesday’s fixture.
“I don’t want our boys to think about the previous game that we won against Kerala Blasters this season. They are attacking a lot more now, are very motivated and press high. We need to be careful and look for openings to capitalise on. It will not be an easy game as they are a side high on confidence. But, we have not given up. We are still fighting and we will do the same against Kerala,” said Moosa.
While it was only a draw against the Highlanders, Moosa acknowledged that the mood in the camp is more upbeat and that his side have been working hard on the pitch.
“There are a lot of changes in the side and there is positivity in the camp. The string of defeats is not what we are used to and it was not easy for any of us. We got a good five to six days to train, something we didn’t have between the last two games. We worked on everything we could and hopefully we will put on a better performance tomorrow.”
The Blues will be without influential midfielder Dimas Delgado, who has returned to Spain to attend to a personal emergency. “Dimas is an important part of our team but this is football. The boys are positive, and we will have to wait and see if and when Dimas can return. There are quarantine rules and with the way matches are scheduled, it looks difficult. We aren’t thinking much about that now. We are focused on moving ahead, to see who can fit into his position and what works.”
A host of youngsters have been given a chance to show what they are capable of in the last two games, and Moosa said he will look to them again – to fill Dimas’ shoes. “Introducing young players is the aim. Instead of Dimas, one or two youngsters may come in. And we could bring on more in the second half if things are going well. We want to give our young players a chance so that they are confident going ahead.”
