Eagles FC wins hearts draws against Pune

Kochi: While Manjeri, packed to rafters, cheered for outstation teams, miles down south, a few scores of spectators had turned up at the Jawaharlal Nehru international stadium in Kochi, hearing a local side was playing and they were not carrying a home banner.

However, Eagles FC, the home side competing only in their first competitive fixture, exceeded all expectations including those of their own coaching staff by holding hot favourites Pune FC 1-1 and almost pulled a late winner, which would have been a fairytale debut.

The striking point in the match was that Eagles fought passionately. Did they remind us of the erstwhile FC Kochin or Viva Kerala? It is too early to say so.

But what they did in 90 minutes was inspiring and even the opponents were impressed. Pune’s Dutch coach Mike Snoei minced no words in showering praises on the second division club saying they were outstanding and truly deserved the point.

“They fought really well and from their play in the first half I thought Eagles deserved a lot more. I am disappointed with my team’s performance, but that does not take away any credit from Eagles. Well played,” said Snoei.

It was their attitude and approach toward the match, against such a prolific opponent that stunned many a cynics. Eagles opted for 4-4-2 against a similar formation deployed by Pune, though the role of their second striker was different and decisive.

“I wanted to show that we mean to play football. If you allow the other team to keep the ball you are going to be under pressure throughout. I wanted my team to press hard and retain possession,” said Coach Stanley Rozario.

Striker and Captain Sushil Kumar’s deeper role was significant and it outnumbered the Pune midfield. Eagles’ Nigerian attacking midfielder Odili Felix Chidi outclassed Pune’s iconic Ivory Coast midfield marshal Pierre Douhou.

It was Sakibo Koko’s 78th minute strike that earned them a point and Stanley, clearly moved by the performance, is hoping his boys stay fit. Defender Govin Singh’s groin injury worries them as on Friday they play Group topper Churchill.

Nevertheless, Eagles did a remarkable job in their first appearance. If they manage to stay consistent, by the time the Federation Cup is over they would be recognised as a genuine home team. And spectators shall flock in, wanting for more.