FATORDA: The FC Goa fans expressed “shock”on Friday after their beloved team was handed lengthy bans after last season’s play-off final ended with a punch-up and claims of match-fixing against Chennaiyin FC.
In a ruling announced late Thursday, a regulatory commission also imposed a 15 point penalty on FC Goa, effectively scuppering their chances of silverware when the next edition of the competition kicks off in November.
The Goa Football Association has stated that the punishment meted out to club FC Goa and the owners of FC Goa is too harsh and will act as a dampener to the interest that was getting generated among a large section of society.
Elvis Gomes, President of GFA said that the rules of ISL are seen to be different in all aspects of the game and as such it calls for a review of the verdict by an appropriate forum which needs to examine the matter afresh. “GFA will consult with the club owners and render all assistance that may be needed,” said Gomes.
Soccor Barbosa of Murida-Fatorda said that, “This verdict will effect Goan football and the owners should have not be banned as they are a pillar of support to the team.”
President of CRC Chinchinim, Simon Fernandes reasoned out that it is because of the owners that the franchise is running and has put Goa on the world platform.
Eban Mesquita, coach of Vasco SC also echoed similar sentiment and said ‘it was too much”.
FC Goa fan Joy D’Silva, who is the secretary of Chandor SC said it was unfortunate and a biased decision.
Fr Jovin Pereira is on the opinion that Goans are football loving people and football is in our blood.
Anthony from Sao Jose de Areal said the decision was harsh and with a heavy heart, withdrawal from the third edition of ISL is the only option for FC Goa.
Minister for Fisheries, Avertano Furtado, who is an eminent football enthusiast said, “It is a harsh decision and 15 points is huge difference to cope up with and owners should not be banned as they have encouraged football.”
Mathew Rodrigues, Sports Secretary of SCC, Loutolim said, “It is bad for Goan football.”
Oscar D’Costa, Secretary of Sirlim SC said if the owners are banned who will lead? While Paulo Colaco, Secretary of Rosary SC, Davorlim felt that the future of football is in risk.
