PANJIM: FC Goa fans are crying foul, some of them even taking to the social media to vent their frustration for suspending marquee player Robert Pires for two matches, who was allegedly punched in a post post-game fracas on October 23.
The Arsenal striker, who commands a lot of respect among team-mates and FC Goa fans, was allegedly punched by Atletico de Kolkata coach Antonio Lopez Habas during the high-pressure Diwali Day match against the Kolkata side at Nehru stadium, Fatorda. But the French international now finds himself penalized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee along with Habas, ATK striker Fikru Lemessa and goal keeping coach Deshi Bhaktawer.
Amira Shaikh, who is extremely passionate about the home team says FC Goa cannot be blamed for the fracas.
“Robert Pires was the victim, not the culprit. So it really doesn’t make sense when they impose suspension on him,” added Shaikh.
While Robert Pires has been suspended for the next two games, Fikru Lemessa has also been meted a similar punishment, while the ATK coach faces a four-match ban.
Another fan, Datta Naik, who has watched the club’s every home game, suggests that bad refereeing decisions may have led to the subsequent unsavoury incidents.
“These things would have never happened at international stage. Stricter action should be taken against offending players especially if it has been caught on camera even after match,” he suggests.
The decision stirred dissent over social media as well. The FC Goa fan club page in particular is full of comments and opinions expressing concern about Pires and the team.
Macgyvermariano De Quadros posts, “Pires innocent! The whole ATK team must be suspended from the league.”
While Antush A. Pirés, says in his post: “Why Pires? Fikru should have got at least a three-match ban. He deserved a red in the first half itself. But I can’t understand how they could give a two match suspension to Robert Pires.”
