In times of Covid-19, Goa Pro League should not have relegation: Armando

Panaji: Former India coach Armando Colaco has asked the Goa Football Association (GFA) to scrap relegation in this season of

Goa Professional League

.

Last season’s league was cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic with Sporting Clube de Goa and Churchill Brothers FC declared joint winners.

GFA kickstarted this season’s league after almost a year, but with a new format. The 12 participating teams now play each other only once with the bottom-placed team relegated to the First Division League.

“It will be unfair to relegate any team this season,” said Colaco, now coach of Churchill Brothers. “There is a new format, all matches are being played behind closed doors and at a single venue. All teams are good, they can beat anyone on their day. I appreciate the efforts of GFA in organising the league, but since we are not having a full season, no team should be relegated.”

Colaco’s suggestion comes at a time when five teams are battling to save the drop. Youth Club of Manora, Guardian Angel SC, Panjim Footballers and Sesa FA all have 10 points while Velsao Sports and Cultural Club are at the bottom with eight points. While Panjim have completed their engagements and Sesa have two games in hand, the others have one match each left to be played.

“The clubs make a great contribution to Goan football, even in difficult times. Sesa has been running an academy and providing a very good platform. Guardian Angel, Velsao and Manora are all village clubs, who keep the team going. Panjim have done well too.

“Relegation will not help Goan football’s cause. There will be more harm done. I know this is a league and a professional league must have relegation, but we are now dealing with exceptional circumstances. So many players have tested positive for Covid-19 during the league and have been unable to take part,” said Colaco.

Colaco made a special mention of Youth Club of Manora, who are late entrants to the league after replacing Corps of Signals at the last minute. GFA initially wanted SSC Cavelossim from the first division but they were not ready to take part at short notice.

“It was brave of Manora to take part in the league. They did not get enough time to prepare,” said Colaco.