MUMBAI, 10 DECEMBER, 2021 (GPN): It has been a rough start for FC Goa this season in the Hero Indian Super League. Whilst the Gaurs were finally able to get off the mark in their last game against SC East Bengal courtesy of a 4-3 win, their defense continued to struggle.

Juan Ferrando has seen his side concede 11 goals in the first 3 games, the highest in club history through the first 4 games. The Spaniard, though, doesn’t feel that the backline is the main concern for the side heading into Saturday’s game against Bengaluru FC.

“From my point of view, the main problem is not the defense,” stated Ferrando. “All players have the responsibility to attack and defend, depending on the moment of the game. Therefore, we are working on general aspects and details in this regard.”

One of the main aspects of the Gaurs’ struggles in terms of defending has been from set-pieces. Ferrando weighed in on that aspect of the game, saying, “Obviously I am concerned about our execution in terms of defending set pieces. However, I feel that firstly it is more important to improve the players’ confidence in these situations during matches.”

Bengaluru, a very respected opponent

In Bengaluru, FC Goa will be up against a side that the Gaurs don’t have many fond memories of playing against. In fact, their win over the Blues in their penultimate league game of last season was only their second victory over Bengaluru in their 9 meetings.

However, whilst Goa will look to build on their first of the campaign, Bengaluru’s fortunes have taken a downswing off late following a win in their season opener. The Blues are winless in their last four with three losses to their name during the same period.

Speaking on their opponent ahead of Saturday’s encounter Ferrando said, “Bengaluru are one of the best teams in the ISL, I have the utmost respect for the group and its players, highlighting Cleiton (Silva) and (Sunil) Chettri as references.”

Whilte there remains mutual respect between the sides, Goa will look to pile on the misery on the Blues when they clash on Saturday night. A win will see the Gaurs not only build further momentum, but also will propel them to the middle of the pack in the league table.