ISL 2017-18: FC Goa Review - A refreshing transformation from last season's dismal show

THE CURTAINS came down on FC Goa’s journey in the ISL 4 with a disappointing 0-3 score line (1-4 agg.) to Chennaiyan FC. There shouldn’t be any debate on the outcome that the best team eventually won based on the fact Chennai was the better equipped, balanced and well rounded team. While FC Goa defensive frailties would eventually catch up with them over the phase of a two leg tie.

Having said that this doesn’t take away any credit away from FC Goa for what they achieved this season. There were a breath of fresh air this season with their style of play that earned itself a lot of fan following. Credit to Lobera for doing the brave thing for sticking to his beliefs and philosophies through which he was bought up on. But unfortunately it became apparent during the course of the season, the squad was top heavy when it came to attacking options but threadbare in providing defensive solutions.

Chennai Coach Gregory deployed tactics that I had disconcertingly raised in my first preview where he looked to press in midfield, stay compact and weather the initial storm before hitting Goa on set pieces. This was an approach that would expose Goa on the first two goals. The positioning and marking either nonexistent or getting over powered physically. While the defensive pairing of Sereno and Alves threw themselves at tackles and put their bodies on the line. There was an element of self assurance that they could deal with that initial pressure applied by Goa. Karanjit was never going to let anything get past him such was the mood.

As some Fans will be disappointed with the semi final exit which is understandable and comes with the territory when you have a loyal base to call upon, I for one would look upon this season as a success. They dug in deep when the season seemed lost to pull back with good wins vs Pune and Jamshedpur to win 3^rd Spot. Let’s not forget that this franchise finished in bottom place last season. The undesired scenes surrounding ownership created a fractured fanbsase whose loyalty and goodwill had to be won back. And win back it did. It started with the Management doing the right things behind the scenes connecting with the fan base through various initiatives such as Club memberships, the various social grassroots programs through its Forca Goa Foundation and more importantly bringing a young and hungry coach who bought in some exciting attacking talent.

Let me re iterate that playing the pass and move game is not as easy as it appears. It takes a lot of hard work carried out on the training ground as well in the film room sessions. Players are made to approach the game from a mental aspect as well by making them read the game better, anticipate a pass before it happens. Achieving that was a good job done but yes Lobera doesn’t need telling by us where his next home improvement needs to begin in the off season. Like Coro and Lanza in the frontline or Jahouh in midfield, he needs to bring in a vocal and strong personality in his defense as well. Barring Seriton who made rapid strides and to some extent Ali, the defence needs a refresh and beefing up. In my very first opening piece in pre season, I mentioned Goa needed more pace on the wings.

Notable suggestions from my end would be to get someone like Adil to add more energy, height and physicality to the midfield, Changte instead of Mandar who will add more pace and directness on the left. A new center back pairing as Ali continues his development. A Left back with pace would be an instant upgrade over Das.

Lobera is young and learning. Over the course of the season, it became apparent he didn’t believe in chopping and changing. He remained loyal to his goal keeper and his center backs despite their inconsistencies. But, he needs to develop a ruthless streak as well. I remember when I put him on the spot and queried him on how does he deal with the issue of a player underperforming. It was very much an indirect question aimed at Kattimani’s tough run. Lobera was quick to point out that it was important to give his players confidence and encourage them as some of them had to play a different way and had to make personal sacrifices for the betterment of the team. I am sure once he addresses the defensive needs through player recruitment, he will also put in adjustments on alternate plays within his style if need be if a game isn’t going as per plan. It would ensure that Goa doesn’t have to play full throttle at all times or be susceptible on the counter attack.

All in All, it was a pleasure for me to cover this team. I was a bit circumspect while taking up this assignment given my own personal commitments and as to whether it would be worthwhile but after given what was happening off the pitch with the player personnel moves the management were making and one look in Pre Season, I was more than convinced we were on for a good ride. Thanks again to the Coach and his boys, it was a pleasure.