Salgaocar are keen to regain their past glory with a win over Dempo in the inaugural tie of the first AIFF Professional Leage (I-League) on Saturday at Nehru Stadium here.
Salgaocar’s poor form for the last couple of years saw them lose their place in the 10th National Football League in 2005-06. Now, that they are back in the premier division, they are more determined to make a mark at the ONGC I-League this year.
Recent good showing by Salgaocar in Durand Cup and having secured runners-up in the GFA Professional League, they are keen to make an imperession in the inaugural I-league.
“Our boys have been working hard for the prestigious league and are prepared to take on Dempo who are the defending champions,” Chief Coach Savio Medeira said.
“The first match is important in any tournament and we are keen to do well against them tomorrow. Getting a positive result in that game will definitely set the tone,” Medeira, named best coach in the Durand Cup, added. He stressed that the club is keen to make a strong come back in the mainstream.
For Salgaocar, there is no injury worry as all their  players are fit, but Dempo will be missing their reliable winger Clifford Miranda who will be out of action after having suffered a fracture in Durand Cup.