The Olympics are on in Rio and while India won their first
medal thanks to the efforts of Sakshi Malik, a female wrestler, many hope that
P V Sindhu can do the same when she plays against her Chinese competitor in the
semifinals. Goans have joined in the celebration but the spirit of the state is
more focused on the fact that the ISL buzz has commenced. It’s that time of the
year when the passion and cheer for football is sure to be heard through the
corridors of schools, colleges and workplaces. Such is the enthusiasm for the
sport and its representative team, that Goans hold close to their heart.
FC Goa has managed to sign three key Goan players, namely Romeo
Fernandes, Mandar Rao Dessai and Laxmikanth Kattimani; a move that has been
appreciated by all the football enthusiasts in the state. Also, as people prep
up for the third edition of the ISL, much is expected with Zico returning to
help take the team into hopefully another final.
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Rumour had it that many a fan would react adversely to this new
change in management. Many took to social media to point out that of course the
‘Goa factor’ had gone out of FC Goa, now that the two powerhouses of Goan
football, the Salgaocar-Dempo partnership that had propelled the club to the
fore, had decided to opt out of the club’s management and ownership from the
third edition onwards. The fans, however, had chosen to go nowhere, and have
vociferously stated their case for all involved to hear.
Shivani Vernekar is a student and passionate footballer who
supports the boys in blue. “My loyalty hasn’t changed for the team. It’s my
love for the sport; no matter what, I shall always be an FC Goa fan,” she
asserts.
The recent change of ownership of the club did lead to massive
outbursts when the news was announced. However Zico is back and is putting
together a squad under the ownership of Jaydev Mody, Venugopal Dhoot and Virat
Kholi.
“Owners, players and managers leave and move on but it is the
fans that stick around. They’re the ones that make and form the club,” says
Sherman Vaz, a professional footballer.
Sherman’s brother, Keenan, a Ranji Trophy cricketer too will be
standing with the Gaurs when they take the football field this ISL season. “FC
Goa represents Goa so the change of ownership doesn’t matter as it’s my loyalty
towards a team that represents my state,” says Keenan.
The fans have had their say, and quite evidently, they plan on
going nowhere. The next stop now is the stadium, where in a matter on no time,
full stands with roaring voices will only enforce these words that have been
spoken.
