Stalin Naranjo On Inter BDA Title Win
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Inter BDA coach Stalin Naranjo praised his players’ character and belief after they prevailed in a dramatic final-day title race.
Naranjo’s side beat Tuff Dogs 3-2 at Goose Gosling Field to retain the title last weekend, finishing level on 25 points with YGS but edging them on goal difference with a superior margin of +3.
They had trailed YGS by three points going into the final round, while their rivals lost 5-4 to Robin Hood at the same venue in the later match.
“We thought the title was gone when they were six points ahead of us with three games to go,” Naranjo told Bernews.
“I said, ‘Look guys, we still have a chance to win the title. We have to fight until the end.’
“We started winning games, and now we’re the champions.”
The Ecuadorian, who has lived in Bermuda for 17 years, also led Inter BDA to the title last season, when they finished unbeaten with six wins from ten matches.
The team have now won three league titles in five seasons, along with the Corona Charity Cup.
Naranjo said his players were at Goose Gosling Field watching the closing stages of the title race unfold in person.
“We were watching the game and, obviously, cheering on Robin Hood. It was a really amazing game,” he said.
He added that building a strong team culture had been key to their success.
“It’s important to create a community. We enjoy ourselves, but it’s about football,” he said.
“We go and clear the railway of litter and try to give back to our community. You have to keep the good vibes.”
He also praised the contribution of younger players in the squad.
“We have some really good young Bermudian players who have brought a lot. They have really improved our team,” he added.
Inter BDA forward Thales Frances finished as the league’s top scorer with 13 goals.
