PANJIM: Seven Goan players were picked up in the Hero Indian Super League domestic player draft on Friday. The addition of these players to the rosters of the various squads is a matter of pride not only for the players and their families, but to Goa as well.
Herald decided to felicitate these players as a host of reporters visited each one of them personally and presented them with a bouquet.
The young and promising Brandon Fernandes, who was most sought after by Mumbai and Goa, ended up on the roster of the former even as Goa tried hard to secure his services. Fernandes was unavailable when Herald visited his residence.
Cavin Lobo, who made a splash at the tournament last year with two stunning goals against FC Goa at the Fatorda Stadium to win it for Atletico de Kolkata after Goa looked to be cruising, was also picked up quickly. Having been released by Kolkata, Kerala Blasters FC wasted no time in securing his services as they made the midfielder their first draft pick.
Midfielder Peter Carvalho, who plied his trade for FC Goa in the previous edition, will partner Lobo in midfield for Kerala.
Victorino Fernandes was the only Goan player in the draft; however, he will play for his home side, as Goa made him their first draft pick after missing out on Brandon to Mumbai. “He would play in the fields everyday and come home battered and bruised and now he’s made sure none of it went in vain. He will participate in one of the most elite football competitions in the country and there’s no prouder father than me in the village,” said Joao Fernandes on his son Victorino.
After sitting on the edge of his seat throughout the event, Albino Gomes finally saw his name flash on the screen as the last draft pick with Mumbai City FC making him their final pick. “My heart was sinking with each name. I told him to turn off the TV. But soon after I said this, in the 7th round of picks, I finally saw his name on the screen. He has worked for 13 long years and is finally getting the reward for it,” said Joanita Gomes, mother of Albino.
The second edition of the ISL will begin on October 3. The players will join up with their respective teams ahead of the season to start training.
