‘We’ve got bigger, better’

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A jubilant Churchill Brothers teammembers celebrate after their second I-League triumph in Panaji on Tuesday—PTI

It’s not always that the defenders get their share in a triumph and looking at Churchill Brothers’ second I-League win on Wednesday, the same can be said about Denzil Franco.

Franco has been workmanlike in his team’s campaign this season rising to the occasion whenever the need arose.
He, however, credits the hard work done by the entire team in the last few years which is reaping them rich dividends. After Churchill sealed their second title, Franco spoke on the triumph, the secret behind their success, the Churchill family and much more. Excerpts:

You have been part of Churchill for quite some time. What has changed over the years?
It has been three fruitful years with Churchill Brothers for me. I joined in 2010 from Salgaocar. We have always been very consistent and this season we were the best. We are reaping the dividends of our hard work over the years. We have got bigger and better with time. It’s a feeling which I can’t describe.

What was the secret behind the success this season?
The unity amongst the boys! That has been our secret. We have strived for glory unselfishly. The owner has been a pillar of strength. It was like one big family and all of us were aiming for the ultimate triumph.

How important was the role of technical director Subhash Bhowmick and the entire coaching staff?
Subhash Bhowmick has been a father-figure for all of us. Our coach Mariano Dias and the entire support staff deserves credit too. It has been a team effort both on and off the field. When you have such a strong support-system, you are bound to succeed.

How important was the introduction of India captain Sunil Chhetri in the mid-season?
Chhetri has been very influential. He scored when it mattered. His goals against Dempo and the equaliser against Mohun Bagan which gave us the title, tells the story. A player of his class is a bonus for any side and for us, he has been a boon, especially after we lost Bilal (Narajjaine) and Akram (Moghrabi).

Can you describe the team chemistry throughout the season.
Crackling. Simply crackling.

What has been the secret of success for Goan clubs in the I-League?
This triumph is a gift for the football buffs of Goa. It’s one big party right now here. The support has been fantastic at home and as a young player you get motivated.