Salgaocar face Dempo test

Salgaocar, received a rude shock to their dream run in the I-League when they lost to lowly Air-India but ensured their superiority over Churchill Brothers with a win to open up a three point gap over Churchill at the top of the table and five points over defending champions Dempo and East Bengal, who have 41 points each from 20 matches.

Salgaocar, who are at the top with 46 points from 20 matches, know that from here on they would need to win matches and Saturday’s game is very crucial as it will decide which team is likely to win the title.

Bencherifa and his band of warriors had beaten Dempo in the first leg without their Indian players and now with their return it will further boost their chances.

The gangling striker Ryuji Sueoka, who has been their leading scorer with 15 goals, has played the stellar role along with Yusif Yakubu upfront.

The duo would be hoping to put up the same performance once again and play a dominant role in the attack if Salgaocar have to beat Dempo, who are at their best after the return of their Indian National players.

The Salgaocar midfield will be strengthened by the return of Rocus Lamare after a serving one match suspension.

Dempo’s hopes of advancing into the quarterfinals of the AFC Cup have faded, and they are now concentrating on defending their I-League title.

But they will be without defenders Domnic Noronha, who is recovering an injury, and Rouholiah Sameina, who is suspended. Dempo’s hopes of getting three points rest with their midfield.