Royal Rangers were spot on with their target of reaching the top-five bracket last season, until some unforeseen problems derailed their campaign in the Delhi Soccer Association league — protests were lodged by various Delhi clubs during the final phase of the DSA Annual Super Division League against them for allegedly playing Tibetan nationals.

This season, Rangers are sporting a new look, with a brand new coach in former India mid-fielder Carlton Chapman, a host of reputations, and the ‘protested’ players still firmly in the scheme of things.

Club owner Benny Joseph says he’s determined to stick to his ‘protested’ bunch. “We’ll keep copies off all the documents that prove the Indian citizenship of our players. They were discriminated against last year, but we need them. The All India Football Federation didn’t reply to our move last year but we’re ready to move court if required. After all, we have spent a lot on these boys,” he says.

Chapman, who has previously coached at the prestigious Tata Football Academy, makes his debut in the Delhi football circuit, and has tall plans lined up.

“What happened is past and I have a very good bunch to work with. Our ultimate aim is to compete in the I-League and for the first season winning the Delhi League. For that we need everyone, our old players, the new signings, a few under-19 boys and finally foreigners. All of them will be a part of a two-three year programme when we’ll set small goals,” Chapman told Sportline.

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