Since the inception of the ISL, if there’s been one team that has had tremendous support throughout the years, it is the Kerala ‘Manjappada’ Blasters. While other teams aren’t devoid of support, it would be right to say that they have been greeted at sparsely populated stadiums more than once. But that’s where the fans of the Yellow Army stand above the rest.
The first 3 years had the Blasters put up stellar performances but failed to cross the line, with them reaching the finals twice. Devastatingly funny enough, both times they lost to ATK Mohan Bagan, formerly known as just ATK. Both times, it went on to penalties and both times, they lost. Although they’ve had a good season here and there since then, it’s mostly been pain and disappointment.
The Blasters have received international acclaim for having such a loyal fanbase and they should still take pride in the brand of football they have played throughout the years, and under the spirited Ivan Vukomanović, it may well be the year that they cross the line. After a controversial end to last year’s season where the team walked out after the referee decided a goal against them, they have kept those spirits up and have turned up great results, toppling some of the giants of the league. The manager seems hell-bent on getting his team across, and the fans adore him for it. They cheer him on no less than they would for a player, and fans wait eagerly for his antics after a home match.
Known now as the best Asian team fans, it is clear that they’re going to stand behind the team no matter how many times they get their hearts racing only to break it. They’re perhaps the RCB of ISL, and it is to be seen who will emerge as the first team to get the fans what they deserve. There won’t be a single Blasters game where you won’t see a good amount of their fans, however far from home it is. And as this year’s edition is at a defining point, it is almost certain that the Blasters will qualify for the playoffs, but most fans won’t get their hopes up, and I won’t too.
