SHILLONG: Eight matches, six wins, two draws, 18 goals scored and none conceded. The figures themselves speak volumes about the performance of the side called Royal Wahingdoh FC which topped the Guwahati-Shillong zone of the U-18 I-League with absolute ease.
What started with a formidable 3-0 win against SAI, Guwahati ended with a 5-0 thrashing of Rangdajied United FC at the JN Stadium.
The Royals won every game, other than the two against local rivals Shillong Lajong FC which ended in goalless draws, to qualify for the Final Round of the U-18 I-League for the first time.
The results though do not come as a surprise to RWFC fans who have always lauded the Club for its idea of nurturing the youth and turning them into stars of tomorrow. Jackichand Singh and Seityasen Singh are the two obvious examples that come to the mind when youth development is talked about.
The Royals have also started on a good note in the U-15 Youth League of the AIFF sitting at the top of the table with six points from two matches.
Though the Royals would not feature in the upcoming I-League, if one goes by the words of the Club management, the same should not upset the young stars who still have a bright future with a set up which has always believed in promoting the youth.
Youth development head proud of the boys
Meanwhile, statting that the idea of youth development was deeply rooted in the club’s philosophy, head of RWFC’s youth development programme, Bobby Nongbet praised the boys for the team’s splendid show in the U-18 I-League Zonal Round.
“The boys have given their heart and soul to each training session right since the beginning of 2015 to prepare for this event. I am very happy with the consistency they have shown throughout the tournament.”
Nongbet also thanked his coaching staff, Aibok Kharpran and Playerson Syiemlieh, for their “great contribution” to this success. Warning against complacency Nongbet said the Final Round would be a completely different ball game as the top teams from across the country would fight it out for the honours.
“Each encounter will be crucial. It will be tough finals and we look to take it one game at a time,” he said.
It may be mentioned that Sports Authority of India, Guwahati is the other team from the Guwahati-Shillong zone to qualify for the Final Round.
