Mandar Rao Dessai will be hoping to produce another strong performance for FC Goa when they host FC Pune City at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Saturday in what will be their first home game of the 2016 Hero Indian Super League. The 24-year-old was one of the Gaurs’ best players in the 2-0 loss against NorthEast United FC in their season opener on Tuesday. He will again have a major role to play against Stallions on Saturday as Goa look to bounce back in front of their buoyant home support after the defeat against the Highlanders. The pacey winger spoke to indiansuperleague.com ahead of the match against Pune. Here are the excerpts from the interview.

It’s your first match at home. How important is the fan support?

Last season, the fans were great, they attended in large numbers and we reached the final. I hope this year too they come in large numbers and support us.

FC Goa were the finalists in the previous season. What is the expectation this season?

Of course, we want to reach the final. Firstly, we need to win the league matches and come in the top 4. Then we’ll see how it goes.

What are your thoughts on the opposition team, FC Pune City?

Pune lost the first game so did we, so both teams will look to win. Since we are playing at home I feel we need the three points more than they do.

Last season you scored thrice for your team. What’s your target this season?

This year too, I would like to get on the score-sheet and score more goals than last year.