19 Aug 2017 | 04:18am IST
Alfred ready to fix dismantled ‘Red Machines’
Players from across India travelled to Goa as the State's only team Churchill Brothers in the I-league held the selection trials this week at Fatorda ground. After failing to retain most of the players for the coming season, Coach Alfred began his mission unearthing talent for the team. There were enough numbers at his disposal but the coach felt they lacked quality. As the Goa Pro League season kicks off in September, ALLAN D’CRUZ takes us through the Club as they prepare ahead of the new season!
There can be no excuses if one has the determination, love and passion for the beautiful game. The two-day football trials conducted by Churchill Brother FC at Artificial Turf ground, was a perfect example for the same.
Eyeing an opportunity to ply their trade for an I-League, youth team players of various I-League and second division I-League clubs across India sported the ‘Red Machines’ bibs at Fatorda in a bid to showcase their talent and grab the opportunity to play for the club.
Goa’s only I-League has always left it late when it comes to the team. But this season wouldn't be as easy as last time, where they managed to field a team in five days.
The Varca-based club were left with no players following their core team leaving for better prospects. An unique combination of Chesterpaul Lyngdoh and Anthony Wolfe together with attacking intent of A Kromah and defensive aptness of Adil Khan and Rowilson Rodrigues gave them a sixth place finish in the I-League under Derrick’s guidance. However, all these players will be missed!
But there was no shortage of numbers for the Red Machines trials as 100 promising players beat the odds as they tried their luck of making it to the select list at colourful Artificial turf ground, Fatorda.
Reyan Yadgiri, a former DSK Shivajians academy player, travelled to Goa for the trials purpose along and his teammates Janak Kudmal, Kartik and Rohan Adnaik, who played for the Pune club in the I-League.
“We learnt about the trials from Coach Derrick. We had good two days on the pitch and we are eager to play for Churchill Bros FC. At moment we are just focused to get into the team,” said Reyan Yadgiri during the trials. The quartet made it to the selection list and will enjoy further stay here.
Another youngster Amit Bisht came in a hope to be part of the Red Machines all the way from Delhi. However, the 18-year-old had to return after he couldn't make the cut. The lad is a Sudeva Moonlight FC player.
The trials meant serious business to the Club as Alemao family member —Savio Alemao— also took his time off to watch the trials.
The players were divided in teams of 11 and were checked on their match performances and other abilities. Altogether 39 players were shortlisted after the two days trials with the outstation players making it 40 per cent of the list.
Coach Alfredo looked content from the sidelines as his technical team watched some potential stars who attended the trials.
“The response was really good. Despite the quantity the quality wasn't that great. And the expectations can’t be high also as most of the players have been recruited by most of the clubs,” said Alfred Fernandes.
With Goa Pro-League just weeks away, Alfred has set his goals straight! The coach is in hunt for pure talent and dedicated players for his I-League campaign. “We are not competing for the Pro-League title but we are looking out for some players who would perform in this league for I-League.” said Alfred.
