The Pune FC academy cadet became the second player after Nikhil Kadam to score for the club in the I-League.

The young Pune FC striker Thongkhosiem Haokip stole the limelight on Thursday against Mohun Bagan when he came off the bench to score the opening goal helping them to their first home win this season.

Interestingly, this was 20-year-old’s second game as substitute in Pune FC colours, the first one was against Shillong Lajong and the goal against Bagan was the first for the club. He was introduced in the 64th minute, when Spanish striker Raul Fabiani had to be substituted due to an injury when he clashed with Bagan defender Anyichie Echezona.

Hardly spent eight minutes on the pitch, the youngster rose above the Bagan defense to head in a sublime freekick to get his goal tally ticking in the I-League. “I was happy. And honestly reactions were mixed before the feeling settled.  The goal was important for the team and I praise the Lord for that...” he told exclusively to www.kickoffindia.com.

The Manipuri lad was drafted into their senior squad from their U-20 team, where he helped Pune FC bag back-to-back titles in the U-20 I-League, scoring seven goals in process. He was born in Gangpijang village in Manipur, where he represented the state in the National School Games. He then joined a local club United Sports Association in Khurai and spent some time there before joining Peninsula Pune FC Academy.

He was all the more excited that his goal came against mighty Mariners. “Mohun Bagan is a big club and I respect them for their achievements. Ahead of the match I was not scared but was waiting for my chance to play this game. I was always ready and prepared to play,” he said.

The youngster gives credit to coach Mike Snoei for inspiring and motivating him for the big stage. “The coach simply says; ‘play aggressively, be strong and be confident in what I did when out on the field. He also told me ‘don’t worry’. I am a learner. I've always looked forward for any guidance/ advice for my betterment. With Coach it has been all about paying attention and asking when in doubt. Coach is friendly, helpful and strict when it comes to working.” he added.

When question if heading is his main forte. He answered, “All I know was the talk given to me by coach before I went in. I was supposed to take Raul (Fabiani) position and play. I’ve often in the past scored with headers and I can say I am confident in the air.”

He also explained his journey to the senior team from the Under-20 team by quoting, “Winning the U20 I-League twice was really great. Our team was a strong unit and we played with heart. When I graduated into the senior team, it was a dream come true. Every day since the pre-season has kicked off in July, I am gaining invaluable experience from my senior teammates. The Coaches and the teammates have always been around to help me and I hope to repay the faith.”

Although, the young man is showing all the signs of being a promising player, having potential to be a powerful striker, it’s still early to take a call on his career, but never-the-less, he had a lot in the list to give away the credits. “I credit all who have played a part. The list of coaches is long and it remains a collective effort. But yes, my parents for support, the Lord for the rest, apart from both Pune FC and all my teammates throughout my career.” he concluded gracefully.

Vaibhav Pawar