DG Khetan (Malad) marked their presence with an emphatic performance on the football field, storming into the boys’ U-16 third division final of the renowned MSSA inter-school football tournament. This impressive victory unfolded against RN Podar (Santacruz) at the St Francis D’Assisi ground, Borivli, on Monday.
DG Khetan’s early dominance set the tone for a match where skill and strategy took center stage. Right from the kickoff, the Malad-based team showcased their intent, applying relentless pressure on their opponents. The breakthrough moment came in the first half when deep defender Kumar Badugu executed a brilliant piece of individual play, finding the back of the net to put DG Khetan ahead. This early goal was a testament to the team’s tactical acumen and Badugu’s exceptional talent.
As the game progressed into the second session, DG Khetan fortified their lead with another remarkable goal. This time, it was Aaroosh Bardeshkar who delivered a masterful shot, courtesy of a superb left-footed free kick that sailed past the RN Podar goalkeeper. This moment of brilliance solidified DG Khetan’s 2-0 advantage, effectively demoralizing their opponents and securing their spot in the final.
The victorious team, represented by goalscorers Kumar Badugu and Aaroosh Bardeshkar, captured the spirit of triumph in a photograph taken post-match. Their expressions of joy told the story of a well-fought battle and a deserving win.
However, the day was not solely about DG Khetan’s triumph. The other quarter-final matches of the MSSA inter-school football tournament saw their own share of drama and excitement. In a riveting encounter, Thakur Public School (Kandivli) showcased resilience by coming from behind to defeat Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan School (Malad) with a scoreline of 2-1. The game started with Josiah Chettiar of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan School converting a penalty in the first half to give his team the lead. Thakur Public School’s determination was unwavering, as Arnav Singh stepped up to score twice, turning the tide in their favor and leading his team to victory.
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In another quarter-final that captured the spectators’ attention, St. Anthony High School (Malvani) delivered a stunning upset against the highly favored Don Bosco International (Matunga). The match ended 2-1 in favor of St. Anthony’s, thanks to the critical goals scored by Daksh Koli and Manas Supugade. Despite a late effort by Jahhaan Sanghavi of Don Bosco International to pull one back, St. Anthony High School maintained their composure and held on to their narrow lead.
With these results, the stage is set for an exciting semi-final clash between Thakur Public School and St. Anthony’s, promising more thrilling action and spirited performances. Both teams have shown remarkable tenacity and skill, and their encounter is eagerly anticipated by fans and neutrals alike.
Returning to DG Khetan, their journey to the final has been a showcase of disciplined training, strategic on-field decisions, and individual brilliance. Coach and players alike have every reason to be proud of their achievements thus far, yet they remain focused on the ultimate goal – lifting the trophy.
Such tournaments not only highlight young talent but also foster a sense of sportsmanship and competition among schools. The MSSA inter-school football tournament is a breeding ground for future stars, providing a platform for these young athletes to shine and hone their skills.
As DG Khetan prepares for the U-16 third division final, anticipation builds around whom they will face and how the final match will unfold. For RN Podar, albeit a loss, the journey does not end; such experiences are invaluable for growth and learning.
In conclusion, DG Khetan’s 2-0 victory over RN Podar reiterates the importance of preparation, teamwork, and seizing crucial moments during a match. The path to the final has been rewarding, but the ultimate test lies ahead. Sports enthusiasts and supporters eagerly await the final showdown, hopeful for another display of exhilarating football.
