Down by a goal, AVM showed great fighting spirit to script a turnaround with a resounding 4-1 win over Rustomjee Cambridge International (Dahisar) in the first semi-final.
In an exhilarating match held yesterday at the St Francis D’Assisi football ground in Borivli, Mumbai, the reigning champions Smt RSB AVM from Juhu demonstrated extraordinary resilience and skill to clinch a spot in the girls U-16 Division I final of the MSSA inter-school football tournament. Facing an early setback, the AVM team found themselves trailing by one goal but managed to orchestrate a dramatic comeback. Their counter-attack proved to be relentless, turning the game on its head within a stunning span of 11 minutes.
Vedika Kulkani of Rustomjee Cambridge International (Dahisar) initially opened the scoreboard with a skillful strike, putting the pressure on AVM. However, AVM’s Norah Bhattacharya spearheaded the assault that would soon follow, scoring twice and effectively setting the stage for her team’s dominance. Following Bhattacharya’s lead, her teammates Radhika Vyas and Rhea Murudkar each added a goal, cementing AVM’s victory. The remarkable turnaround not only showcased individual brilliance but also an exceptional team spirit that ultimately overwhelmed their opponents.
Despite enjoying more possession in the first half, AVM struggled to break the deadlock initially, leaving the scores at 1-0 by halftime. The lack of goals in the first half did not dampen their spirits as AVM came out in the second half with renewed vigour, clearly determined to change the narrative of the game. Bhattacharya’s brace was a testament to her exceptional skill and field awareness. Her first goal came through a well-executed team play that left the Rustomjee defence flat-footed. The second goal was the result of an accurate long-range shot that sailed past the goalkeeper. Once Bhattacharya opened the floodgates, Vyas and Murudkar quickly added to the tally, ensuring that AVM retained control until the final whistle.
The semi-final match was a thrilling encounter, capturing the essence of competitive school-level football and serving as a precursor to what promises to be an exciting final. The AVM team’s ability to remain focused and disciplined even when trailing is a significant takeaway from their performance. This kind of determination often makes the difference between champions and contenders.
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Contrasting routes were adopted by reigning champions Smt RSB AVM (Juhu) and Bombay Scottish (Mahim) as they made their way to the girls U-16 Division I final of the MSSA inter-school football tournament. Down by a goal, AVM showed great fighting spirit to script a turnaround with a resounding 4-1 win over Rustomjee Cambridge International (Dahisar) in the first semi-final.
In the second semi-final, Bombay Scottish (Mahim) demonstrated flawless execution and dominance, achieving a commanding 4-0 victory over Rustomjee Cambridge International (Thane). The Scottish team’s performance was clinical from start to finish, leaving no doubt about their intent to reach the summit. Samriddhi Naik was the star of the show, scoring twice and proving her prowess on the field. Her goals were well-crafted, showcasing her ability to maneuver through the opposition’s defence with ease.
Other contributions came from Sarah Gupta and Priyanshi Kedia, who scored one goal each, further solidifying Bombay Scottish’s position in the final. Scottish led by a solitary goal at half-time, and the second half saw them build on this foundation. Sarah Gupta’s goal was a remarkable tight-angle shot that squeezed past the Rustomjee goalkeeper. Priyanshi Kedia added the final goal with a fine header that left the opposition’s defense in disarray.
Both teams now gear up for a highly anticipated final. While AVM’s journey to the final was marked by a dramatic comeback, Bombay Scottish’s path was paved with consistent performance and tactical superiority in their respective semi-final matches. The upcoming final promises to be an electrifying contest as both schools have demonstrated their mettle and strategic depth in reaching this point.
The contrasting journeys and styles of play of AVM Juhu and Bombay Scottish promise an exciting showdown in the finals. AVM’s resilience in the face of adversity and Bombay Scottish’s calculated dominance set the stage for what would be an enthralling championship match. The final is scheduled to be held at the same venue, ensuring that the thrill of school football reaches its peak. Football enthusiasts can expect a match filled with skill, strategy, and unwavering competitive spirit as these young athletes vie for the prestigious MSSA Girls U-16 Division I title.
