AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: With Sporting Clube de Goa commencing its crystal fifteenth year of existence this season, it is also a special anniversary for the Club’s longest serving active player, Joseph Pereira who has recently completed ten years with the Goan outfit, a Press Release from the club stated.

“The club has treated me extremely well, through the good times as well as when I have been laid off with long-term injury, which is why I have stayed loyal to the club,” remarked Joe.

Rolling back the years, the 31-year old fondly remembers Season 2004-05 when the club annexed the national Super Cup, after narrowly finishing as runners up in the NFL league as well as the Federation Cup, in which the winger claimed six goals and also collected four Man-of-the-Match awards.

“When I reminisce about the last ten years, 2004-05 is the season that really put the club on the map. I am still regularly reminded by Flaming Oranje supporters of the cherished memories of that stylish team,” Joe said.

From that squad, Joe is the only survivor as some of his ageing teammates have retired, while others have moved on, including the mercurial Nigerian striker Dudu Omagbemi who was picked up to play in Europe.

Joe is not one to dwell on the past and feels the club can grow to even greater heights over the next couple of years under Spanish Coach Oscar Bruzon and is determined to stay part of his plans.

Despite losing some of his horse power acceleration, Joe stays competitive with his vast experience and game temperament, which has allowed him to continue playing in this season’s Airtel I-League.

Joe believes the terrific enthusiasm from the management can also act as a catalyst for prosperity.

“The club is being well looked after off the pitch by the patronage of President Mr. Peter Vaz, who has recently installed fantastic training facilities, which has been greatly appreciated. The SCG Academy players should also realise how lucky they are,” gleamed Joe.

Joe’s earliest football memories are of him kicking the ball around at the Our Lady of Perpetual Succor High School, Cortalim. After the initial ground work was set, Joe knew pretty early on in his teens that he wanted to be a footballer and set his mind on it by joining the SAI Hostel.

Splendid performances ensured that SAI were promoted to the GFA first division; with a team that included Sporting Goa left back Rovan Pereira. Joe eventually moved onto Cabral Sports Club in the first division and then to Sporting Clube de Goa where he has not looked back since.

(Picture courtesy: Sporting clube de Goa)