DIOGO FARINHA, PLAYERS OF FUTURE player, led Mafra's defense in the categorical victory in Leiria, by 4-1, in the 10th round of Series D of the National Junior Championship of the 2nd Division. At a time when there are eight rounds left until the end of the first phase, the team coached by Paulo Brito is the leader with five more points than Nacional and ten over Caldas, who are the next opponents.
- The victory in Leiria proves that Mafra is a serious candidate in the fight for promotion to the 1st Division. Is the rhythm to be maintained?
- Without a doubt yes. The team had a very good posture throughout the game. We started strong, taking initiative, and managed to score. From then on, the team maintained its concentration. However, in a set piece we ended up conceding a draw. From then on, the team took control of the game, maintaining aggression and concentration at all times. We knew how to leave the opposing team worn out and, in this way, we managed to exploit their weaknesses well and achieved the deserved goal ten minutes from the end. From then on, the opposing team had to expose themselves more and we knew how to take advantage of the right moments to end the game and not give the opponent a chance to react. It was a great performance from the team that brings us one step closer to our goal.
- On an individual level, was it also a positive performance?
- Yes. The game went quite well for me. Mafra had more ball and more initiative, so I tried to look for different ways to break the opponent's line of pressure and often with success. Defensively I remained solid, as did my colleagues. We went one more game without conceding a goal from the open ball. However, we have to improve dead ball situations to avoid surprises…
- What is the secret to Mafra's success?
2) The team only focuses on facing every game as if it were the last. We always maintain the same united spirit that allows us to win and maintain this consistency. Little by little the goal gets closer, but we always have to keep our feet firmly on the ground, as there is still a long way to go in the championship.
- What is your leadership in Serie D due to?
- There is no simpler answer to this question than work. Work hard every day and maintain concentration and focus. Then in the games this work is reflected and with the help of the excellent group of colleagues I have by my side everything becomes easier.
- Another worthy opponent is coming, Caldas, third placed.
- The match with Caldas, on November 25th, will be another final that we have to play. Caldas is a very valuable team that keeps its goal of reaching the next stage very much alive. The first round game was one of the most complicated we had and we managed to win it (2-1) due to spirit and determination. Caldas is motivated by a victory against Nacional and comes to Mafra with everything they need to take the three points. As for us, we just have to continue playing the football we have been playing, continue with the concentration and aggression we have had and maintain the great unity we have on the field. This way we can achieve a victory that could be crucial for our objective, which is to qualify for the promotion series to the 1st Division.
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