Ajit John
ajit@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: The atmosphere was electric at Dabolim airport as jubilant fans of Churchill Brothers FC welcomed their heroes home after the team’s triumphant performance in the I-League. Despite the unexpected evening drizzle and a half-hour flight delay, the spirits of the supporters could not be dampened. Eager fans, who had waited anxiously, erupted in celebration the moment the victorious players disembarked from their flight.
As the team exited the terminal, the air was filled with chants of “Churchill, Churchill!” The crowd surged forward in excitement, eager to capture photographs with the players and the Alemao family. It was a moment the fans had been waiting for over a dozen years.
Churchill Brothers finished atop the I-League table with 40 points, securing the provisional championship, though the final title decision hinges on the AIFF's upcoming ruling on an appeal involving Inter Kashi FC’s match against one of their opponents. The decision, expected on April 28, could potentially award Inter Kashi additional points.
Despite the uncertainty, fans were in high spirits. “This season has been a roller coaster for both the team and the fans, filled with unforgettable highs and lows,” said long-time supporter Anthony K V. “But supporting this team is about more than trophies; it's about their resilience. I’m confident the decision on April 28 will go in our favour.”
Sudhir Patil, another dedicated fan, expressed his pride in the team’s journey: “Our players have shown incredible character this season. We are proud of their unwavering spirit.”
Team CEO Valanka Alemao was visibly moved, calling the victory a “dream come true.” She attributed the success to "God’s blessings and Mother Mary’s intervention.
She emphasized, “We won the game on the pitch, and that’s what matters.” Vice President Savio Alemao echoed her sentiments, adding, “A Goan team is back on top after 12 long years. This is a historic moment, and on the 28th, we will get the trophy.”
Head Coach Dimitri was over the moon with joy, saying, “It’s a fantastic feeling to have achieved this. I’m ecstatic.”
As the team basked in their glory, a fan began drumming, and the fans soon broke into a spontaneous dance. An open truck, adorned with banners proclaiming the team as champions, awaited to carry the players to Patron Churchill Alemao’s residence for an unforgettable night of festivities. The celebrations had only just begun.