SHILLONG: The MIFT organized at the 1st Ground, Polo saw a greater crowd response than the Shillong Premier League which concluded earlier this month. The stands were near full for the final between Shillong Lajong FC and 58 GTC much to the delight of the organizers.
What was heartening was that the crowds had started coming in large numbers even during the league matches, which is a welcome change in recent times considering the fact that the premier local league of the city, the SPL, has for over a couple of seasons now failed to generate much interest.
Speaking to The Shillong Times after his club’s win, Shillong Lajong FC CEO & Managing Director Larsing Ming Sawyan said the history associated with Ground I Polo drew the crowds to the arena.
“It’s a football exclusive stadium and watching football from close quarters has always been more fun. Moreover people in the city are more used to watching football in the Shillong Sports Association stadium and this is one of the major reasons why more people turned up for the games,” he said adding that this is a stadium which has been traditionally hosting football.
Replying to the query on whether the SPL has not been marketed well over the years, the Lajong owner said, “The times are changing. All leagues should be marketed and packaged well and this is something the Shillong Sports Association should look into.” He, however, felt that if SPL matches were to be once again hosted in Ground I the crowds would start coming in for the same.
