Churchill Brothers' 2017 I-League season has been a tale of two halves really. The team from Goa were struggling after a run of poor results initially before the appointment of Derrick Pereira in February.
That turned things around for the Konkan side. The gaffer played a vital role in reviving the season, as the Churchill side claimed several important results. The Red Machines finished sixth on the points table in the I-League but were knocked out in the group stages of the Federation Cup. With their season at an end, we now take a look at the top three players from the Churchill Alemao-owned outfit.
3. ADIL KHAN
The central defender was one of the most consistent players for the Goan side. Having featured in Churchill's all 18 ties in India's top tier this season, Adil was a formidable force in the backline of Churchill Brothers. The 28-year-old was a part of the defensive forces which kept four cleansheets in the 2017 chapter of the league. He was also a threat at the other end of the pitch as well from set-pieces, finding the net twice in the tournament.
Known for his well-timed tackles and accurate man marking, the Goa born centre-back put all of his experience to use in the crucial fixtures. Adil's aerial prowess also benefitted Derrick Pereira's army. The SESA Academy product could also command from the backline and helped his side with good distribution of the ball from the back.
2. CHESTERPOUL LYNGDOH
The Meghalaya-born winger was undoubtedly the breakout star of the campaign for Churchill. The diminutive 19-year-old troubled many a defence this time around and established himself as one of the first names in the Churchill first XI with his enterprising performances.
Chesterpoul added much needed pace and creativity in the Konkan outfit's midfield. To add to this, the youngster registered three goals to his name which only concludes that the Goans have found themselves a promising prospect in the name of little Lyngdoh. Interestingly, two of his goals came against Bengaluru FC and Mohun Bagan, highlighting the teenager's sense of occasion.
1. ANSUMANA KROMAH
I-League
Ansumana Kromah was one of the major factors behind Churchill's resurgence midway through the season. The Liberian struck six goals in 13 top flight appearances and formed a brilliant combination up front with Anthony Wolfe. His performances were as wacky as his haircut and the 25-year-old rarely disappointed the Churchill fans once he stepped on the field.
Often deployed in a free role behind Wolfe, Kromah would initiate moves for Churchill and was often their creative outlet. He also shouldered the striking responsibilities when Wolfe was sidelined during the Federation Cup. All of these qualities and contributions make him the top choice for the best player of the 2017 edition of I-League for his contingent.
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