Bombay Scottish, Mahim, have clinched their place in the boy’s under-16 Division I final of the MSSA inter-school football tournament after a grueling 2-0 victory against Cambridge School, Kandivli. The semi-final match, held at St Francis D’Assisi football ground in Borivli on Monday, was a showcase of intense football action and tactical play.
The reigning champions will meet Don Bosco, Matunga, in the final. Don Bosco secured their spot in the finale by narrowly defeating St Stanislaus, Bandra, via penalties in their semi-final encounter last week. Bombay Scottish’s triumph was marked by an own goal from a Cambridge defender, followed by a phenomenal long-range strike from their captain, Raghav Kanodia, sealing their victory in this tightly contested match.
Right from the onset, Bombay Scottish appeared determined to establish their dominance on the field. Despite their overall superior play, their performance in the second half left much to be desired. Nonetheless, it was a crucial own goal by a Cambridge defender in the ninth minute, following a free-kick by Raghav, that gave Bombay Scottish the initial advantage.
As the game progressed, Bombay Scottish continued to solidify their control over the match. Their captain, Raghav Kanodia, played a pivotal role in the centre of the park, orchestrating plays and dictating the pace. In a breathtaking moment, Raghav launched a stunning long-range strike that soared past the Cambridge goalkeeper, firmly securing a two-goal lead for his team.
Cambridge School, although down by two goals at halftime, exhibited promising signs with their play. They managed to create several bright moments but were unable to convert their opportunities into goals. The lack of a finishing touch ultimately hindered their efforts to make a comeback.
The significance of reaching the final once again is not lost on Bombay Scottish. Their journey to this point has been characterized by resilience and a blend of strategic gameplay. Head Coach Fhad Ansari’s leadership and tactical acumen have been instrumental in guiding the team to success.
In an interview post-match, Coach Ansari expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and praised the determination of his players. “The boys have shown remarkable perseverance and character throughout the tournament. We are thrilled to be in the final and look forward to a competitive match against Don Bosco,” said Ansari.
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The enthusiasm and support from the Bombay Scottish community have been palpable. The school’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting sportsmanship shines through their consistent performance. As they prepare to face Don Bosco in the final, the sense of anticipation and excitement among students and staff is at an all-time high.
Raghav Kanodia, reflecting on the semi-final win, highlighted the importance of teamwork and staying focused. “It was a tough game, but we stuck together and executed our plan. Now, all our attention is on the final. We know Don Bosco is a strong team, but we are ready for the challenge,” he remarked confidently.
For Cambridge School, despite the defeat, the semi-final was a valuable learning experience. The team’s coach acknowledged the areas that need improvement and commended his players for their effort. “We had our moments, but we lacked the finishing touch. This match has given us insights into what we need to work on. We will come back stronger next season,” he assured.
As the final showdown approaches, both teams are undoubtedly gearing up for a thrilling contest. Bombay Scottish will aim to defend their title, leveraging their strengths and the experience gained from previous matches. On the other hand, Don Bosco, known for their strategic prowess and resilient gameplay, will be eager to dethrone the champions.
The MSSA U-16 Division I final promises to be a captivating spectacle of youth football, featuring some of the most promising talents from Mumbai’s school football circuit. Fans, students, and football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this high-stakes match that will determine the ultimate champion of the tournament.
In conclusion, the journey to the final has been marked by intense competition, exceptional performances, and unwavering dedication from all the teams involved. The stage is now set for an epic clash between Bombay Scottish and Don Bosco. As the excitement continues to build, one thing is certain – the MSSA U-16 Division I final will be an unforgettable event, showcasing the very best of youth football in Mumbai.
