AIFF kicks up schedule row

Chennai, March 30: Trust the All-India Football Federation AIFF to goof up things. Mediamen were taken for a surprise when a press release, issued just before today8217;s Santosh Trophy match, said Bengal will meet Kerala in the second semi-final on April 2, while Tamil Nadu will meet Goa on April 1.

Goa coach Shabbir Ali, totally unaware of the change, was livid with anger, when he was informed about the switch in schedule. Goa was originally supposed to play on April 2, but now, they have been forced to play three matches in five days. The former international was sporting to heed AIFF8217;s demand.

The change defies logic. Kerala finished their league engagements on March 28 and Bengal the next day. The teams have had three days rest. Ideally they should have played the first semi-final.

Who is the AIFF trying to please?