Singling SC optimistic ahead of their SPL campaign

GANGTOK,: Sikkim Premier League, launched this year, kicked off last week with excitement levels the highest it’s been for years.

Among the eight teams that are competing in the State’s first franchise-based football tournament, a team from West Sikkim is hoping to stake their claim.

They are Singling Sporting Club.

It’s needless to say that the Soreng-based football club is one of the best from West Sikkim. 

The young club has enjoyed a fruitful campaign in the tournaments they have played so far.

Singling SC’s advantage is that they already have a team that knows what to do on the field and has added range with the signing of professionals.

Singling SC has bolstered the side for the SPL with overseas player Juma Balinya (Uganda), Mizoram midfielder Lalliansanga Renthlei, and experienced Sikkim players Mobin Rai and Nima Tamang. Sameer Pradhan is their draft pick.

The squad also includes Urgen Pintso Sherpa, Anil Subba and Tancho Hang Subba who have represented Indian junior men’s teams.

“We are happy the way the team has come up,” said club co-owner Pravaker Golay.

Sixty per cent of the players in the squad are regular members of the club.

“While some clubs have signed an entire new squad, we are giving opportunity to our players who have been playing for us since the beginning,” added Pravaker.

It is true that they have to adapt to the big league but they are confident of doing well in the tournament.

“We have a pretty good team. The players have been preparing since the tournament was announced. Our players at hostel were in regular practice and after new signings joined the squad, we have been training at Bhaichung Stadium,” said Pravaker.

The Singling SC will play their match against Red Panda FC, at Bhaichung Stadium on Saturday.

“We are very excited for the first match. Most of our players haven’t played in big tournaments like this before. We are hopeful of doing well in the tournament.”

Formed by co-owners MLA Aditya Golay and Pravaker, the Singling SC is well supported by a group of friends from Soreng district including Diwas Tamang, Dawa Tamang, Abishek Chettri, Chundup Tamang, Russal Tamang and Chultim Tamang.

Post Covid-19 pandemic, the club has offered footballers form Soreng region a new lease of life by providing opportunities that has steered them to the bigger platforms.