Guwahati, Nov. 12: Empty stands and lack of demand for tickets has played a spoilsport to the spirit of the 56th Bharat Ratna Lokapriya Bordoloi Trophy Tournament, reflecting a declining interest in the sport in the city.

Almost into the quarterfinals of the flagship event organised by the Guwahati Sports Association (GSA), the spirit is yet to catch up with the spectators.

Unlike in the sixties and seventies, when fans used to stand in serpentine queues since the mornings, the ticket counters have not been witnessing much business. Though the price of the tickets has been kept at denominations as low as Rs 5, there has been no crowd to speak of.

Even six leading national teams and two overseas teams, who are in the fray, have failed to attract the crowd.

The last time the Nehru Stadium was almost full was during the finals of the 33rd National Games between Assam and Tamil Nadu early this year.

The lack of publicity on the part of the GSA should also be blamed for the poor turnout. Unlike in Sikkim, Kerala, Goa and Bengal where hoardings and posters are put up to publicise even minor football tournaments, the GSA did not carry out any publicity drive.

“The GSA could have put up hoardings and posters,” said football coach Ganesh Rai.

The condition of the ground is also to be blamed. Though the turf is undoubtedly some of the best in the history of the tournament with the event starting only two days after the one-dayer between India and Pakistan on November 5, the hard surface is affecting the form of the players.

The GSA could have easily sprinkled water to make the surface more football friendly.