ISL: Miroslav Slepicka - Czech delight for FC Goa
Clinical strikers are the basic component of any football team. The art of subtle finishing that they possess is often capitalised by the team, and their presence often elevates ailing spirits. FC Goa's Miroslav Slepicka is one such striker, who has lifted Goan spirits and played a crucial part in their resurgence.
The imposing Czech target man started his professional career with Marila P?íbram. After a short spell with Marila, Slepicka moved to Slovan Liberec. His technique, skill and trickery gave him 86 appearances for Slovan, which encouraged giants Sparta Prague to plan a move for Slepicka. After moving to the club in 2005, he started 55 games for the Czech outfit, scoring 19. He also wore the prized number 10 jersey for Sparta Prague.
After a three-year spell, Slepicka moved to Dinamo Zagreb and showcased his goal scoring abilities to pure genius. He scored 11 goals in 25 appearances for the Croatian giants. Slepicka has also enjoyed time in the Champions League with both Sparta Prague and Dinamo Zagreb.
In his illustrious career, most of which was spent in the Balkan regions, the striker has won the Czech League (2006-07), and three Czech Cups (2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08) with Sparta Prague. He has also won a Croatian Cup (2008-09) and is a two-time winner of the Croatian league (2008-09 and 2009-10) with Dinamo.
Signed by Zico-masterminded FC Goa, Slepicka had a slow start to his ISL campaign. Often rated third in the attacking pecking order, Slepicka rarely started for FC Goa in their opening encounters. Missing opportunities in front of the goal after creating goal-scoring chances became a common sight for FC Goa, and Slepicka stepped in.
Utilizing his vast experience of having played in the Balkans and the Champions League, Slepicka gave momentum to the Goan juggernaut immediately. The Czech, since his first start, has scored four goals, provided two assists and registered 10 shots on goal in just seven appearances for FC Goa.
Slepicka's inspired performance for the team has not only led the Goan contingent to a comfortable 18 points, but has also shifted his ranking higher up in the order, edging Ranti Martins and Tolgay Ozbey.