NorthEast United FC will be looking to make it two wins from two when they come up against FC Goa at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday. The Highlanders have never beaten the Gaurs in their four meetings so far but will be looking to buck the trend and make it a maximum of six points from their opening two encounters. Subrata Paul started in goal for the Highlanders in their season opener against Kerala Blasters FC and kept a clean sheet as they beat Hero ISL 2014’s runners-up 1-0. The former Mumbai City goalkeeper spoke to indiansuperleague.com ahead of the match. Here are the excerpts from the interview.First match, first clean sheet and a clinical performance. What are your thoughts on the win against Kerala Blasters FC?Winning is always great. That too in the first match and I think it is an extra boost to the team. However, that is past and now we are looking at the next match.What are the areas of improvement going ahead?My job is to protect the goal and the coach will tell what to do on the pitch. We are trying to improve as a team.You are one of the senior pros of the team. How big a challenge is it for you to motivate your team and lead the boys?My job is to save the goal and motivate the team-mates. Whenever anyone needs help I am always there.How do you plan to contain Reinaldo and Robin Singh’s strike-partnership?Tomorrow is all about NorthEast United FC versus FC Goa, it’s not about individuals. So we are focused on the Goa team and look to execute the coach’s instructions.Does playing at home boost your confidence?There is no home game or away game for me. I treat all games equally. What’s done is done and we have to look at the game tomorrow.Who are the key players you think who could influence the outcome tomorrow?On match-days, we play 11 versus 11 and anyone can be the hero, even substitutes. I wish he is from our team but I wish good luck to everyone who plays.
