CHENNAI: Chennai FC can finally breathe, as they have one hand on the title after winning a cracker of a game against Indian Bank in the CFA Senior Division League at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Tipped to win since the beginning, the private franchise haven’t had a very smooth passage. With off field issues taking limelight, Sunday’s game will be one to remember.
It’s also a personal achievement for Robin Charles Raja. The former Tamil Nadu coach, who has won the league twice with Hindustan Eagles and Customs, is on course to win it for the third time. “I want to thank the almighty for today’s result. I am extremely happy with the performance and I hope I can win it this year,” said Robin after the 3-2 win watched by over 500.
His delight is understandable considering the fact that the league is filled with some of the best coaches from the state. “Syed, Ranjith, Soundararajan and everybody are excellent coaches. The competition is very tight and that’s why this is very special to me,” he added.
Indian Bank, who put up a fighting performance, have own reasons to be happy. Considering the squad depth and experience, Syed Sabir Pasha’s boys have done well. Fielding a majority of local players, they underlined the need to encourage youngsters from the state.
“The boys proved that they can stand up against big players. I am extremely proud. This is exactly what they needed. It’s a great exposure for them,” said Pasha.
Chennai FC may have won the match but the bankmen won the hearts of the crowd. “We were the lone warriors to challenge for the title against the cash rich private teams,” added the Indian Bank coach.
Though Pasha expressed his concerns over certain refereeing decisions that has been haunting the league since the beginning, he was sympathetic towards Viva Chennai, whose hopes were dashed after their defeat. “I am very sad for VIVA. They were more worried about today’s result than we were.”
“Our next game is against VIVA Chennai. Though we lost today, I can promise you an entertaining match when we play them next week,” he concluded.
Senior Division: Chennai FC 3 (Raja Pandi 40, Jagaba Hamza Anaba 56, Suraj 61) bt Indian Bank 2 (Saravana Kumar 20, Olitju Joseph Abhi 55).
First Division: Chennai United FC 3 (Baba Tunde 30, 40, 50) bt Eleven Warriors 1 (Obiaja Fred 35).
