Delhi Dyanmos FC have endured a disappointing start to their Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 campaign. Since their victory in the first game, the Lions have lost five games on the bounce slipping to bottom spot in the league standings. However, Delhi forward Guyon Fernandez still remains hopeful of a strong comeback. In an interview with indiansuperleague.com, the Dutch striker discussed his side’s chances in the upcoming game against Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena on Friday. Here are the excerpts.

What do you think is not working out for Delhi, considering the team has had five consecutive losses?

I think it’s a combination of things. We did not have a lot of luck. If you combine these things, it is difficult to win games. It is the main reason we lost the games.

How different is it to play in India?

Football wise it is not very different. Here in India, I think it is very important to score the first goal because it is very hard to equalise or even win the game. For example, the games we played, the opponents scored the first goal and it was very difficult for us to counter and win the game, so I think that is the most different part about Indian football.

What do you think the team needs to do to change their fortunes?

I think we work hard during the week. There is nothing wrong with the philosophy of the coach. It is just a little bit of luck and fortune that we need. We still have to believe in the things that we do and fight for it. The coach always says that the competition gets over at the end and not now.

What are your thoughts head coach Miguel Portugal and his philosophy?

I think it is a good philosophy. I like the way he thinks- playing from the back. I think if you believe in something, you have to continue the philosophy and keep playing by that and of course sometimes you need to adjust some things. But I like playing from the back and creating chances.

Who according to you will be the key player for Mumbai city FC?

That is difficult. I think they have a good team. Their number 10 is a powerful player. He is good with the ball. But I focus on our team and not on the opponent. We have to do what the coach tells us to do.

How does Delhi plan on tackling Mumbai City’s defence?

We have to put pressure on them and not let them play. We will fight and after 90 minutes, we will see who is on top.

What’s it like playing with a slightly young squad in the Hero ISL?

I think in football, experience is a quality. The age difference between the other teams and ours is more. The young guys make mistakes but they have to learn from it. If you are good enough, age doesn’t matter.