I-League: Churchill Coach Carlos Pereira All Praise For Air India

It was a hard fought victory for Churchill Brothers as they were lucky that the referee disallowed the third goal scored by Air India in the final quarter. Victory tastes sweet and none would know it better than Carlos Pereira considering that they hadn't snapped three points in their last four matches.

"It's not that we played bad in the previous games as we created chances but weren't scoring. I don't believe in luck but I believe in God. There was pressure on the boys as they weren't scoring.

"I'm happy until the next match, which is a must win considering it is a Goan derby against Dempo," said Pareira.

Kalu Nnanna wasn't in the best physical condition and to add to that, he suffered a number of challenges in the game and was stretchered off on at least three occasions.

"Kalu is a very important player for us. He has been in the same condition in the earlier games as well. We have six days before the next game and I hope he recovers. Once the first phase of the I-League comes to close, He'll get a break as he isn't playing in the Goa League."

Odafa Okolie found the back of the net towards the death after missing a series of chances in the match and the coach was pleased to his target man scored from open play.

"I'm happy for Odafa and for the team as well. Sometimes, when things don't go your way, you begin to feel that there is a block. Today, he scored which will do good for him."

The I-League champions don't enjoy a good record against Air India and the Brazilian acknowledged and had a few good words for his counterpart.

"Air India are always a difficult side. They can surprise you anytime from set-pieces. They run a lot as well. Bimal Ghosh is a good coach."

Rahul Bali