Jamshedpur July 27: Jamshedpur FC's youth development pathway took another significant step forward as three academy players Lawmsangzuala, Shagolsem Rashithoi Meetei and Alvin Eshaan Khyriem made their senior first-team debuts in the Men of Steel's emphatic 5-0 victory over Defenders FC in the 135th Durand Cup.
The occasion marked a historic milestone for the trio, who became the latest products of the Jamshedpur FC academy to play for the senior team. Their inclusion under Head Coach Kaizad Ambapardiwala, who has coached these players for almost two years, reflected the club's commitment to nurture homegrown talent and provide a pathway from the academy to the first team.
The academy's strong representation was evident throughout the matchday squad. In addition to the three debutants, fellow academy graduates Sachin Singh and Ronaldo Singh were also named on the bench.
The club's academy influence extended beyond the youngsters. Senior players Pronay Halder, Lalhriatpuia Chawngthu, Nikhil Barla and Sourav Das also came through the club's academy setup, meaning nearly 40 percent of the matchday squad consisted of players developed through the club’s youth pathway.
"Seeing academy players make their senior debut is always a proud moment for any coach. They have worked extremely hard over the years, they were disciplined and focused. What pleased me most was that they didn't just make up the numbers as they influenced the game and showed they belong at this level," said Head Coach Kaizad Ambapardiwala.
The faith shown in the academy graduates was repaid immediately, with the debutants making telling contributions after coming off the bench.
Lawmsangzuala played 22 minutes and made an immediate impact by creating the opportunity that led to Raynier Fernandes completing his hat-trick. His low strike was spilled by the Defenders FC goalkeeper before Raynier reacted quickest to score Jamshedpur FC's fifth goal.
“"Making my senior debut for Jamshedpur FC is a dream come true. I've worked towards this moment for many years, and I'm grateful to the coaches and everyone at the club for believing in me. To contribute to a goal makes it even more special, but this is only the beginning and I want to keep improving," said Zuala about his debut.
Meanwhile, Shagolsem Rashithoi Meetei featured for 13 minutes, and displayed composure in midfield and adapted comfortably to the pace of senior football.
Another player who had huge impact was Alvin Eshaan Khyriem, who was introduced with six minutes remaining in place of hat-trick hero Raynier Fernandes, with his lively contributions attack as he registered two shots on goal grabbing the opportunity he got.
"Every academy player dreams of making the step up to the first team. I'm thankful for the opportunity and happy that I could express myself on the pitch. Getting a couple of shots on goal has given me confidence, and I hope to continue learning from the senior players and coaches," said Alvin about his debut.
