After slow start, FC Goa getting stronger: Sahil Tavora

Panaji: Sahil Tavora’s performances and progress has mirrored that of FC Goa this season.
The midfielder wasn’t part of the Goa starting 11 for the initial games, but a combination of factors – Rowllin Borges’ injury and Ayush Chhetri’s new advanced role in particular – has seen him cement his place, slotted alongside the trusted Carl McHugh.
An unused substitute in the 2-2 away draw against Chennaiyin FC, Tavora was handpicked for a starting role against Bengaluru FC at home. Since then, he has been part of every minute on the field, a result that has seen Goa pick three wins on the trot.
“Personally, I am happy to be starting games and helping the team,” Tavora told TOI during the pre-match media interaction. “The last three results have been very good in terms of points. We can play better in some moments of course, but in terms of points, it has been perfect. Whatever job I have to do, I always try to give my best, whether it's starting or coming on (as a substitute). We just have to keep going, myself and the team.”
After accumulating just six points from their first six games – which included a solitary win – Goa now have 15 points, thanks to the three wins in a row. It has brought respectability to their place on the table as Manolo Marquez’s boys are now five points behind leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
“It’s true that we had a slow start, but now, if you see the team compared to the beginning, we are understanding each other better. The group is getting stronger, and I think we are starting to put in better performances and get points. I think we can compete with anyone,” said Tavora.
The midfielder has returned to Goa this season after five years at Hyderabad FC, where he famously scored the late equaliser in the final against Kerala Blasters in 2022 and took the game into penalties. Hyderabad triumphed against the odds at Fatorda to win the ISL Trophy.
Now he travels to Hyderabad for Goa’s next clash, a game the visitors aim to win and maintain the momentum, ahead of two big games against Bengaluru FC (Dec 14) and Mohun Bagan (Dec 20).
“We know we have two big games after this one, but before those two, this one is equally important. We need the three points. If we go into those games not performing in this next one (against Hyderabad), then we will feel worse.
“Hyderabad will be difficult opponents. Maybe the position they are on the table doesn't tell the whole story of the team or the team that they are. Their team is stronger than the table suggests. We need to approach this game seriously and not get distracted. On their day, Hyderabad can be a big threat,” said Tavora.