The force is truly with us, we the people of Goa. An appeal made out of extreme spontaneity, in response to FC Goa being fined an unbelievable sum of Rs 50 lakh for their on-field behaviour after the ugly fracas at the end of the this year’s ISL finals, has become a movement of fans, deciding to contribute at least Rs 50 towards this fine of Rs 50 lakh imposed by the AIFF.
The intention is clear. They reacted to Herald’s appeal in a manner, which has no parallel in at least India’s football history. Have the fans of a football club anywhere in India (and let us ask if this has happened anywhere in the world) decided to pledge money to square of a fine imposed on their club, just because they believe, and their belief is right, that their club was treated unfairly? They have unanimously supported their clubs action of walking off the pitch and boycotting the closing ceremony and prize distribution because their club owner was abused. And the decision to respond to Herald’s suggestion that the people should stand up and be with their team was taken in homes and in offices even before the FC Goa management could wake up to what was happening. Their letters (and we have space to publish only a section on this page) display their spirit. The club management, has in turn, been very touched and emotionally moved by the gesture of their fans and have expressed gratitude and conveyed their thanks to all of you in advance.
Herald will soon announce how to take these sentiments forward. It is in the process of opening a bank account and will communicate the details for all of you to deposit cash and cheques. Please remember to send us an email at a mail address, we will also announce very shortly, with your names and contribution amounts. The period in which you can deposit your amounts will be from March 15 to June 30. We will then withdraw the entire deposit and hand over a consolidated cheque to the club on behalf of their fans. Of course each person’s name will be published in regular updated lists across all media and social media platforms of the Herald Group.
Let’s set the ball rolling. For FC Goa. Our FC Goa. Our FORCAAAA Goa
— Editor
