In a thrilling clash of under-16 talents, Ryan International ICSE (Chembur) and Utpal Sanghvi (Juhu) ended on level terms with a 2-2 draw during the MSSA inter-school football tournament held at the historic St Francis D’Assisi football ground in Borivli on Monday. The game was characterized by fluctuating fortunes, contributions from standout players, and resolute defending, leading to an exhilarating contest for both teams and spectators alike.
Utpal Sanghvi took an early lead, thanks to the stellar performance of Griva Gada, who netted both goals for her team. Her initial strike set the tone for Sanghvi, putting pressure on Ryan International right from the start. However, Ryan International, known for their resilience, didn’t take long to bounce back from the early setback.
Swara Pote, a name that resonates with excellence in school-level football, became the hero for Ryan International by matching Gada’s brace with two goals of her own. Pote’s first goal brought Ryan International back into the match, and her second, which came early in the second half, temporarily tilted the balance in favor of her team, giving them a 2-1 lead.
Despite the match being mostly confined to midfield exchanges, with both teams struggling to break through strong defensive setups, the first half saw a goal each from both sides, setting the stage for a more intense second half. The defensive strategies and midfield skirmishes became the focal point, as neither team was willing to relent.
The change of ends saw increased energy and determination from both squads. Ryan International managed to seize the lead through Pote, whose poacher instincts put them ahead at 2-1. This lead could have been enough for a victory, but for the tenacity shown by Utpal Sanghvi, who refused to go down without an intense fight.
In a defining moment towards the match’s climax, Ruhani Bhagat from Utpal Sanghvi delivered a sensational run down the left wing, skillfully evading challenges to provide a crucial assist. Bhagat’s precision pass allowed Griva Gada to score her second of the match, restoring parity at 2-2 and ensuring the points were shared.
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Aside from this gripping encounter, the MSSA inter-school football tournament saw other action-packed matches. In the day’s opening fixture, also part of the girls under-16 second division, Jamnabai Narsee International (Juhu) faced off against Jankidevi Public School (Andheri) in a match that ended in a goalless draw. Both teams had their chances but eventually had to settle for a single point each as neither could break the deadlock.
Later in the day, JBCN International (Borivali) delivered one of the more dominant performances in the tournament. They triumphed over Witty International (Malad) with a resounding score of 4-0, largely thanks to a hat-trick from the prolific Ahana Kumar. Kumar’s extraordinary display of skill and finishing ability left the opponents reeling. Preesha Patel added another goal to complete the tally, sealing a comprehensive victory for JBCN International.
The MSSA inter-school football tournament continues to live up to its reputation of showcasing young talents and thrilling fans with dynamic, unpredictable matches. The draw between Ryan International and Utpal Sanghvi perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the competition, where determination and talent often result in closely contested games that keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
Griva Gada’s and Swara Pote’s performances are likely to be remembered as highlights of this edition of the tournament. Both players demonstrated poise, skill, and an eye for goal that bodes well for their future careers in football. As the games continue, fans are eagerly anticipating more such riveting encounters.
In summary, the tournament so far has been a testament to the abilities of young footballers across schools in Mumbai, promising a bright future for sports and football in particular. The competition remains wide open, and the shared points in this match guarantee that the excitement and high stakes will persist in the forthcoming fixtures.
