'Fernando has done wonders'

With reference to the title "Manilal laments failures" in the Daily News of September 25. Manilal Fernando accepted responsibility for his failures, in an exclusive interview with Sports writer Richard Dwight. Much had been said and written about Manilal. I as a former National Soccerite will fail in my duties, if I don't say a few words about Manilal Fernando.

I have seen so many soccer administrators since 1962. But no one took any interest in putting up a "Football House," raising the standard of soccer, looking into the needs of the players or constructing playing fields.

So I rate Fernando as the best among these administrators and no harm if we say that he is the guardian of Sri Lanka Soccer. He may be lamenting for not winning any major tournaments or trophies, but definitely, he has not failed in raising the standard of soccer or giving all the best facilities and good times for the players. Which we during our playing period (60's/70's) never saw or heard of.

He has accepted responsibility in his failure, without laying the blame on his co-administrators, coach or the players. This shows that he is a perfect gentleman, and his action has made all his critics keep mum. I should say and all will accept, that the popularity of soccer in Sri Lanka is diminishing. This is the spot where Manilal has to work on. Popularity means attracting more spectators. Cheering and jeering will encourage our team and discourage opponents. This was seen during the recently concluded SAFF games, where the Maldivians brought more than 4000 supporters from Male. They out numbered our home team spectators, their cheering and jeering was also one of the reasons for our team losing.

In 60's and 70's, when our local clubs, Victory, Saunders, Black Square and Ratnams play each other from quarter final stage itself Sugathadasa stadium would be full to capacity. Football leagues too would be eagerly waiting for these teams to play, so that they can fill their coffers.

Football is a game which has the largest following of spectators in the world. The interest in Soccer has never waned, but unfortunately in Sri Lanka it is fading.

So Fernando has to concentrate more on this aspect and think of a way to get the crowd back. His able assistants C.E.O. and the President, FFSL too should help Fernando to succeed in his endeavours. Fernando thinks that he has failed, then he has to bounce back.

I suggest that he consider reviving the Southern Pentangular Football Tournament which was played annually and was very popular with the Sri Lankans and was a crowd puller too.

Great Fernando has all the good qualities, a true perfect gentleman soccer administrator. Soccer loving people in Sri Lanka, should shed all differences and rally round him. Give him all the support and encouragement to accomplish his mission successfully.