In a gripping encounter under the floodlights at the WCG courts, Sahar’s Our Lady of Health secured a thrilling victory over St Joseph’s (Umerkhadi) in a men’s open quarter-final match of the prestigious 44th Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana annual rink football tournament. The Thursday night clash was packed with excitement as both teams displayed exemplary skill and determination, ultimately requiring a tense tie-breaker to decide the winner.
The match began with Our Lady of Health demonstrating their attacking prowess. Imran Shaikh, their star performer, was in imperious form. His movement and precision on the ball were unmatched as he tore through the St Joseph’s defense. Shaikh’s efforts were soon rewarded when he managed to net a fantastic hat-trick. His first goal was a result of a beautifully orchestrated play that left the opponent’s defense flat-footed. The second saw him outpace the defenders with sheer agility, while the third was a stunning strike from outside the area that had the crowd on their feet.
Despite Shaikh’s heroics, St Joseph’s displayed remarkable resilience. They were not to be outdone and found their way back into the game with a spirited performance. Dixit Bhoj, Sahel Tandel, and Austin Fernandes each found the net, leveling the score and keeping the match fiercely competitive. With both teams locked at 3-3 as the regulation time came to an end, the tension among spectators was palpable as the game headed into a decisive penalty shootout.
In the climactic shootout, nerves of steel were essential, and both teams knew the pressure they were under. For Our Lady of Health, it was Shaikh who once again stepped up, showcasing his superb composure and accuracy. His opening penalty was clinical, setting the tone for his team.
. Rohit Pal followed suit, delivering another crucial goal for the Sahar-based side. The final score in the shootout read 5-3 in favor of Our Lady of Health, as they emerged victorious to advance to the next stage of the tournament, leaving their supporters jubilant.
Elsewhere in the competition, another dramatic quarter-final unfolded between St Francis Xavier (Kanjurmarg) and St Andrew’s (Bandra). St Francis Xavier displayed a commanding performance, comfortably securing a 5-3 victory. Shoaib Baig was the hero of the match, scoring an impressive four goals and displaying striking flair. Arvind Raj contributed the fifth, stamping their authority on the game. Despite a valiant effort from St Andrew’s, where Danzil Mascarenhas managed to score three goals, they were unable to turn the tides.
In the veterans’ category of the tournament, MYJ Green reigned supreme over IC MYJ with a solid 2-0 win. Goals from Anthony Reveredo and Edilbert Martis ensured their progression, as they executed their game plan to perfection and kept a clean sheet.
The Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana annual rink football tournament has long been a highlight of the sports calendar, offering a platform for local teams to showcase their talent and compete with zeal. The quarter-finals held on Thursday night did not disappoint, providing a feast of action, with players leaving everything on the field.
As the tournament progresses, expectations run high, and anticipation builds for the following stages. Teams are gearing up to deliver enthralling performances, with fans eagerly awaiting to see who will lift the coveted trophy this year.
Thursday night’s matches were a testament to the passion and excitement that football brings, not just to the players but to the entire community. It was a night of exceptional talent, remarkable goals, and tense moments, leaving the audience wanting more as the tournament heats up towards its thrilling conclusion.
