FC Goa and Northeast United drew 1-1 in Guwahati, with both teams creating a number of scoring opportunities. Yasir’s deflected shot put the Gaurs ahead, but Jithin MS equalized for the Highlanders with a stunning finish to beat the keeper in a 1v1 position. After the draw, Manolo Marquez discussed the outcome, new additions, and Borja and Carl McHugh’s absence.
Manolo Marquez on the result:
Coming into the game, FC Goa were on a nine-game undefeated streak, having won six of them. Northeast, on the other side, was coming off three straight draws in their previous three games. Both teams had legitimate opportunities to score more than one goal, with Brison and Alaeddine hitting the crossbar for their respective clubs, but they settled for a draw. Manolo Marquez expressed dissatisfaction with the goal conceded, but also stated that he is content with one point rather than nothing.
“We wanted to win. But if you cannot win, it’s better to get one point than zero. It’s painful that again the other team scored in the last minutes. I think that Northeast had chances, we had chances. But I feel that the score is fair. Even the action of the goal of Northeast, I don’t know if it’s offside or not. But it’s a good action. It’s difficult. Every point you have to fight a lot in this competition in ISL. And to be 10 games unbeaten because you can see how is the bottle, half empty or full. Will be full depends on the next score. If we win, we will see full. If we lose, we will be empty.”
Manolo Marquez on the January Transfer Window:
With the January transfer window open, FC Goa has already signed Aaren D’Silva from Hyderabad FC for the rest of the season. Aaren, a local boy, came back to the club and had previously worked with Manolo Marquez while he was in Hyderabad. The Spanish head coach stated that the team is unlikely to make any further moves during the current transfer window.
“No (on signing new players). I think that we have a balanced team. We signed Aaren D’Silva because we wanted an Indian striker. And practically, I’m happy with the squad. I think that we have good foreigners. Always you can improve. Every squad in the world can sign better players. But I feel that we have a good team. I say that to fight for the shield because we are ambitious. But the reality is that now in this moment we are second. It seems that Mohun Bagan is with a good advantage. But let’s see what happens. We will continue fighting”
Manolo Marquez on Borja and McHugh suspension:
Borja Herrera was suspended for three matches after receiving a red card against Hyderabad FC. Adding to the issues, Carl McHugh, who moved from defense to midfield this game, will be suspended for the next game following the accumulation of four yellow cards. In addition to highlighting the significance of these two players, Manolo Marquez stated that the team will contest Borja’s three-match ban.
“The action of Borja (against Hyderabad), during a competition, these kinds of things unfortunately happen. Now, next week, we won’t have Carl McHugh with four yellow cards. Let’s see Borja, because we appeal. Because to put three games for this action, for me is unfair. But it’s true that with Borja we have more football. Maybe in some moments we need more football. Maybe in the build-up.”
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