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Legendary Indian footballer Gouramangi Singh who plays for Neroca FC, spoke exclusively to Sportskeeda discussing the current I-League campaign and the upcoming match against Aizawl FC.
The current champions Aizawl FC host newly-promoted Neroca FC on Saturday in a clash between third and fifth-placed teams on the table. The Manipur outfit Neroca stand third with 18 points while Aizawl FC have secured 14 points to establish themselves in the fifth position with a game in hand.
Excerpts:
On coming to Aizawl for an I-League game.
This is my third visit to Aizawl. I rarely have had the opportunity to come here although I have Mizo friends like Shylo Malsawmtluanga (Mama), Jerry Zirsanga and other pals from the Tata Football Academy (TFA). I came once when I was in DSK Shivajians and then again for the FPAI to play exhibition match last July. The fans are amazing here and this is what we need in Indian football.
On his team’s performance.
In football, you can prepare yourself as much as you can but there is no guarantee about the result. Having said that, we know that we can be competitive. Eventually, we are getting some results and there are still nine matches left. I think that we are at a very crucial juncture of the league.
Another I-League title for Gouramangi?
Talking about the title, it’s not in our hands. To be honest, Minerva are four points ahead of us and we are also relying on other teams. I think the next two or three games will predict how the race for the title will take shape.
About tomorrow’s match against Aizawl FC.
It’s a crucial match. Fans are coming even from Manipur, that shows how important the match is. If we can get three points, nothing like it. But playing the defending champions at home is not going to be easy.
Can we consider this Mizoram (Aizawl FC) vs Manipur (NEROCA) match?
Just 10 years ago, we couldn't have expected a big match like this to take place in the Northeast. All we could do was watch the stars in action on TV or follow the newspapers. When I started playing professional football, we didn't have a club over here. Now the fans can watch their teams play on the pitch. I assure that our match against Aizawl FC in Imphal will also attract a lot of people and I feel fortunate to be a part of the history.
On his individual performance.
You always want to improve. I have been playing for many years but still there is so much to learn. I will keep on learning till the last day of my career.
Any future plans?
I want to play for another few more years. Now I’m feeling good and probably in another one month, I may come up with a 7-a-side football ground with my partner where I plan to hire a full-time grassroots coach. I always asked myself 'What can I do revolving around?' so I just want to work on some basic infrastructure for the kids.
