Dempo to clash against Churchill in NFL tomorrow

Margao, Apr 18 (UNI) A close contest is in the offing when Durand cup champions Dempo Sports Club lock horns with arch rival Churchill Brothers in the 14th round ONGC National Football League championship match to be played at Nehru Stadium Fatorda here tomorrow.

Though both the teams have a well-balanced squad, Dempo have a psychological edge as they had beaten Churchill 2-0 in the first leg. However, Dempo cannot afford to be complacent as Churchill are known for their steady approach.

Both need points to strengthen their position and, so, will go all out for an outright win.

Dempo, placed second in the NFL table, have 23 points and are three points behind table topper Mahindra United, Mumbai. They hope to bounce back from the stunning 2-3 drubbing they suffered last week against JCT.

Churchill Brothers, who fought gallantly and won against JCT and East Bengal, look formidable and are presently placed fourth with 19 points. They are eyeing for full points to improve their points tally .

Churchill coach Karim Bencherifa said he was happy with his team's performance and his boys are in good spirit after two consecutive wins. He hoped that forwards Odafe Okalie and George Ekeh will put up the same performance tomorrow.

Dempo coach Arman Colaco said, ''Every match is important for us as we are in the race for the title. We lost three valuable points against JCT in the last match.'' Dempo will be pinning hopes on Renty Martin and Anthony Pereira in the front to deliver the goods.

UNI