AIFF Media Team

BHUBANESWAR: We are at the business end of the Hero IWL, and table toppers Gokulam Kerala will be looking to maintain their top spot on the league table as they face Sports Odisha at the Capital Ground in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, May 22, 2022.

Speaking on the eve of their match, Gokulam Kerala coach Anthony Andrews feels that unity in display would be key for his side against the hosts.

“We want to fight as a unit and enter the last round in style. Our approach will be to control the game from the first minute, and to stop them in their half. We want to be creative in front of the goal and walk out with all three points.”

The Gokulam gaffer opined, “For us, every game is important and we are taking it one game at a time and preparing accordingly. We have to focus on the area of self-improvement when we regain possession.”

Quizzed about the championship run and defending the title, the coach opted to remain grounded. “Yes our team is far ahead of Sethu in terms of goal difference, but at this point, we are not focusing on that. We will keep it for later and we will be focusing on our next game and will try to put on a good show as a unit.”

Meanwhile, hosts Sports Odisha, who are currently placed fifth on the league table with a win, after fourth-placed Indian Arrows suffered a 1-2 defeat at the hands of PIFA earlier in the day.  

Ahead of the big clash, Sports Odisha head coach, Gitanjali Khuntia quipped, “We have to hold our nerves till the end and be focused, calm and determined, and continue what we have been doing good as a team.”

Gitanjali believes, “The approach will be more robust as we play against table-toppers. We need to give a good fight and win this match.” Gokulam Kerala will take on Sports Odisha on Sunday, May 22, at the Capital Ground at 8:30 AM IST.