In a thrilling showcase of young football talent, the boys of Bombay Scottish School (Mahim) emerged victorious in the MSSA boys under-12 Division-I inter-school football tournament. The event, which was held at the MSSA School Sports Centre, Azad Maidan, on Saturday, saw the Mahim-based team clinching the title with a decisive 2-0 win over Campion School (Cooperage).
The much-anticipated final kicked off with both teams showing remarkable skills and determination. However, it was the Bombay Scottish skipper, Azim Hakeem, who managed to make the crucial breakthrough. The young captain adeptly capitalized on a rebound off Campion goalkeeper Ayaansh Sharma, tapping in the first goal to give his team a 1-0 lead as they headed into halftime—a moment commonly referred to as “lemon time” in football parlance.
Returning to the pitch with renewed vigor after the break, the Bombay Scottish boys were determined to extend their lead and secure the championship. Their persistence paid off when Yohan John crafted a perfect pass to teammate Ethan Taites. Taites, demonstrating composure beyond his years, slotted home the second goal, effectively sealing the fate of the match and ensuring an insurmountable lead for his team.
While Campion School had several opportunities to turn the tide, they found themselves repeatedly thwarted by the impenetrable defense put up by Scottish goalkeeper Adam Carvalho. His stellar performance under the bar was instrumental in keeping a clean sheet for his team, adding to the jubilation of the Bombay Scottish supporters when the final whistle blew.
The atmosphere at Azad Maidan was electric throughout the tournament, with families and friends cheering on the young athletes. The victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Bombay Scottish team and their coaching staff.
In a parallel event earlier that day, St Anne’s High School (Orlem) clashed with Jamnabai Narsee School (Juhu) in the contest for third place. The match ended in a decisive 3-0 victory for St Anne’s, with Safwan Duduka emerging as the star performer. Duduka’s skillful play saw him scoring two of the three goals for his team, while Brave Koli opened the scoring, setting the tone for a dominant performance.
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Returning to the main event, the journey of Bombay Scottish to the finals was marked by strategic plays and teamwork. Throughout the preliminary rounds of the MSSA boys under-12 Division-I inter-school football tournament, the Mahim boys displayed a blend of tactical acumen and raw talent. Their road to glory was paved with significant victories, as they consistently outperformed their opponents, both in terms of strategy and on-field execution.
The tournament, a staple in the school sports calendar, is known for scouting potential football talents at a young age, thus contributing to the development of future stars. The level of competition has historically been high, with participating schools putting forth their best teams, making the success of Bombay Scottish particularly noteworthy.
Furthermore, the camaraderie and sportsmanship on display during the tournament were commendable. Teams, coaches, and fans celebrated not just the victories, but the spirit of the game. The MSSA School Sports Centre was a hub of transformation over the duration of the tournament, with young players honing their skills and creating memories that will likely inspire them for years to come.
It’s worth noting that events like these play an essential role in the holistic development of students. They emphasize the importance of physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills, all of which were exhibited in abundance by the Bombay Scottish team. The triumph in the under-12 Division-I inter-school football tournament is undoubtedly a proud moment for the school and its community.
In closing, the MSSA boys under-12 Division-I football tournament will be remembered for the fervor, skill, and dedication of its young participants. The crowning of Bombay Scottish as champions is a fitting end to a spectacular exhibit of youthful sporting excellence, setting a precedent for future tournaments and inspiring upcoming generations of footballers. As the victorious team held up their well-deserved trophy, they not only celebrated a win but marked the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in their footballing journeys.
