Thaindian News

Fatorda (Goa), Feb 5 (IANS) Prayag United will be highly motivated for their 19th round I-league football clash against Salgaocar Sports Club as the Kolkata side can move to the second spot at the Nehru Stadium here Monday.

Prayag United have given a good account of themselves, having scalped all of the top three teams in the I-League — Dempo Sports Club, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan.

Prayag have 32 points in their kitty and can overtake East Bengal on the head-to-head rule.

“I agree it’s all about motivation tomorrow. Prayag have a chance to go second and they would be doubly motivated. We too can move higher up the table, so there is everything to play for,” said Salgaocar coach Karim Bencherifa.

Salgaocar will be no less motivated, especially after the defending champions were grounded to a goalless draw against Pailan Arrows in Kolkata.

“It’s difficult to play against Pailan Arrows. They play defensively, do not open up and leave no spaces to exploit. It can be frustrating,” acknowledged Bencherifa.

“If you look at the league table, we are neither at the top nor at the bottom and we do not enjoy the situation that we find ourselves in. A win against Prayag will take us to the top, and it’s where we belong. It’s like a mini final for us,” said Bencherifa.

Salgaocar will miss the services of influential midfielder Tomba Singh who remains suspended with a double booking.