Carlos Pena asks his team to stay humble despite massive win over ATKMB

The Gaurs broke their Mariners mojo to get themselves all the way up to third.

FC Goa subdued ATK Mohun Bagan in a 3-0 victory at the Fatorda Stadium on Sunday. The win redirected Carlos Pena’s men towards the top as they look to aim for the very top. Goals from Noah Sadaoui, Fares Arnaout and Aiban Dohling helped them break down a hapless ATK Mohun Bagan side. Juan Ferrando’s instructions backfired as they could only soak up so much pressure and the Gaurs ran riot after half-time. 

FC Goa’s Spanish head coach gave his thoughts on what the win meant and what the team will look to achieve in the post-match press conference:

Thoughts on the fight that broke out in the dying stages of the game 

Carl McHugh seemed to pick a bone with Arnaout and Dohling after being fouled in the last few minutes of stoppage time. On being asked about his thoughts on the same, the manager replied:

“These things happen in football. They were angry because they were losing. It's very normal for these things to happen in the game but as long as it’s on the pitch, it’s all good. The referee resolved it well so nothing more to say about that.”

Next home game against Bengaluru FC and the excitement to perform in front of the fans

FC Goa have won both home games so far, with a 3-0 scoreline in both. The side has definitely been helped by the presence of the fans and will be looking forward to it as Carlos Pena confirmed:

“Yeah, happy to play at home. And we know it’s going to be a very important game for us because we’ve achieved nothing just by winning today. We have to be humble. I know it was a great performance and yes, we should let ourselves enjoy a little bit of today. But from tomorrow we will start thinking about Bengaluru FC and getting all three points. But today it’s time to enjoy, celebrate and go home happy.”

Aiban’s versatility and his scores-only-bangers policy

Aiban Dohling has been a revelation in FC Goa’s defence this season. Last year he even played at right-back and he has followed it up with frequent switches between centre-back and left-back this time. Additionally, he only seems to score world-class goals and nothing short, which his mentor seemed to enjo.

“He’s learning a lot to play like me (laughs). I’m very happy with Aiban," said Carlos Pena. "He’s a player with a lot of commitment. Whenever we need him, as a centre-back or left-back he has responded well. Because of that he is playing all the games. So, yes, I’m very happy for him scoring that goal. It was not usual of course but he did a very good defensive job today as well. ”

Ayush’s silent role as a supporting holding midfielder

Ayush Dev Chhetri has started a majority of the games this season. His manager’s faith in him is testimony to the fact that his role may not be flashy but is equally important to the team. Talking about his traits, the tactician mentioned:

“He’s a guy that disrupts plays with precision. In addition, he showed personality from the very first day. He got his opportunity, took advantage of it and he’s been growing day by day.  I already mentioned that I’m not going to look at anyone’s age or accomplishments. (The) kid deserved to play and he did. But of course, he needs to keep on working, and has many things to improve on, but I am very pleased with him.”

Possible three back-to-back home wins in the league and the home crowd as a game changer

FC Goa have a chance to get three home wins and establish the Fatorda Stadium as a fortress. Carlos Pena was extremely appreciative of the fans and hopeful of giving them more as he elaborated on their role when he said:

“It’s very important to us. We feel very comfortable and confident playing at home. We know that here we are stronger with the support of our fans. Today was not an easy day for us since we came off the back of a tough loss, unsure whether we were our best version.

"We were confused about what we wanted to show. but today they showed great character again. I think the guys showed a consistent performance. I’m very happy and from tomorrow we’ll start thinking about the next one (game).”