We can defeat Salgaocar, says Air India coach

Margao, March 30 (IANS) Air India coach Santosh Kashyap is hoping that his team can spring another surprise on Salgaocar Sports Club when the two teams meet in the 22nd round I-League clash at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, Saturday.

Air India stunned Salgaocar 3-1 in the first leg clash at Pune and is now confident that the visitors can repeat the performance.

"We are far better than what we were in the first leg. The team has improved a lot and I am confident that we can defeat Salgaocar for a second time in the league," said Kashyap.

Air India are high on confidence after a dominating performance against Mohun Bagan in the previous match, although they had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

"We had lot of chances. I was happy with the number of chances that we created but the finishing was not up to the mark," said Kashyap who is now targeting a top-seven finish for a team which almost always battled to save relegation.

Salgaocar SC's title chances evaporated with their loss against East Bengal in the previous match. Coach Karim Bencherifa still has title hopes but is aware that at best they could be fighting for a spot behind Dempo.

"We want to win against Air India for two reasons. First, we want to improve our position on the table and move as high as possible. Secondly, we have a AFC Cup match in Jordan and it's important that we travel there with our confidence intact. It's an important match," said Bencherifa.

Salgaocar will miss the services of Nigerian striker Edeh Chidi who remains suspended with a double booking.