Mumbai City FC travel to the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa to lock horns with FC Goa in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 on Sunday. Having suffered back-to-back losses, the Islanders will look to get back to winning ways in a bid to make the top four. The visitors have been one of the few teams this season, who have been broken the least number of times defensively and a large share of it goes to their sturdy defensive unit. On the eve of the important clash, indiansuperleague.com caught up with Mumbai’s experienced defender Raju Gaikwad, who reiterated the importance of a win and shared his thoughts on the league. Here are the excerpts.

How is the mood in the camp after back-to-back losses?

Yes, we had a tough last two matches. We are prepared for the coming match. All the boys are ready. We are well-planned and focussed to take three points in the upcoming match.

One thing about Hero ISL that has surprised you?

ISL is doing a great thing. Indian players and young players are getting an opportunity. With good infrastructure and facilities, it has made a vast difference for football in India.

How do you plan on tackling an in-form FC Goa?

We won 2-1 in our home match against FC Goa. They are a good attacking team but we are well prepared and we will give our best to take three points.

How will you assess the team’s season so far?

We are in the sixth position right now. We have seven matches left. We have to give our best because the second leg is tougher. We have to come together as a team and more concentration will be required in the last seven matches. We will give our best!

How important will an away win be?

Away matches are very important because in home matches we have got good points. If we get more points in away matches, we can be more confident at home.