Dempo to take on Salgaocar tomorrow ������

Margao, Jan 18 (PTI) Salgaocar suffered a big blow aheadof tomorrow''s I-League match against Dempo as their experiencestriker Yusif Yakubu�was ruled out of the ninth-round I-Leaguetie, due to a hamstring injury.

Since Ekene Ikenwe is still nursing an injury, RyujiSueoka will have to carry the bulk of the load upfront alongwith youngster Marcus Mascarenhas.

Defense lapses hadlet them Salgaocar, who have lost threematches, down in their last match against Mohun Bagan butreturn of defender Khelemba Meetei will strengthen the team.

"It''s disappointing to lose in this fashion when a teamcreates several chances but fails to take advantage ultimatelyto end on losing side. Tomorrow is another tough match and wehave to play without Yusif Yakubu which will make things moredifficult for us to score against a side who are playing wellas a unit," coach Karim Bencharifa.

"Hopefully, the boys will give their best and play theway they played against Churchill Brothers to see the teamback to the winning ways," he added.

Dempo, who are two points behind Salgaocar andoccupying the second position, will be fielding the same sidewhich won against Pune FC. More PTI MCS DK AT