In a dramatic and hard-fought boys U-16 third division clash of the MSSA inter-school football tournament, RN Podar (Santacruz) managed to edge past Fatima School (Vidyavihar) with a tight 2-1 victory at the St Francis D’Assisi ground in Borivli on Friday. The match, which witnessed intense competition and resilient performances from both teams, kept the spectators on the edge of their seats throughout.
The game got off to an explosive start with RN Podar’s Marwan Agashe finding the back of the net as early as the fourth minute. The early goal gave RN Podar an initial advantage, suggesting they might dominate the fixture. However, Fatima School showed remarkable resilience and promptly regrouped. Their efforts were rewarded when Danish Shaikh earned a penalty after being fouled inside the danger area. Without hesitation, Fatima School skipper Nash D’Souza stepped up to the spot and coolly converted the penalty kick, leveling the score at 1-1 by the 11th minute.
As the first half progressed, both teams displayed commendable skills and a fighting spirit, but neither could break the deadlock before halftime. The intensity of the match kept mounting, setting the stage for an exciting second half.
After the teams switched ends, the battle for supremacy continued with both teams vigilantly defending their goals while aggressively seeking an opportunity to score. RN Podar found their chance mid-way through the second half when Tanish Jain seized the moment to score off a well-executed free-kick, putting RN Podar back in the lead. This decisive goal came as a blow to Fatima School, who once again found themselves trailing.
Despite being stunned by the reversal, the Fatima boys did not relent. They launched wave after wave of attacks in a desperate bid to equalize. Their determination was evident, yet the RN Podar defense held firm, effectively thwarting every attempt to breach their goal. The defensive resilience showcased by RN Podar was critical in preserving their slender lead as the clock ran down.
In other highlights of the day, the second match witnessed Billabong International (Malad) surviving a tough challenge from St Xavier’s High School (Fort) to secure a dramatic 1-1 draw.
. The clash was equally compelling, with Revanth Koyyala giving the Fort school a well-deserved lead in the first half. However, Billabong International’s Aarav Reddy emerged as the hero in the dying moments of the game, scoring an equalizer off a flag-kick that ensured the points were shared.
The MSSA inter-school football tournament continually throws up enthralling matches and outstanding performances. The day’s games reflected the high level of competition and sportsmanship that the tournament is renowned for. As the U-16 third division brackets heat up, spectators can look forward to more nail-biting finishes and spirited displays of young talent.
Reflecting on the game, RN Podar’s coach acknowledged the team’s less-than-convincing display but praised their ability to hold off a strong challenge from Fatima School. “It wasn’t our best performance today,” the coach admitted, “but the boys showed grit and determination. We need to work on our tactics going forward, but it’s a positive sign that we can win even when not at our best.”
Fatima School’s coach, on the other hand, highlighted the perseverance and fight his players exhibited. “We played a really good game and deserved more,” he said. “The penalty was a pivotal moment, and we fought hard till the very end. We’ll take the positives from this match and come back stronger.”
Both games underline the fact that the MSSA tournaments are breeding grounds for future footballing stars. The young athletes are not only showcasing their burgeoning talents but are also learning invaluable lessons in teamwork, strategy, and the spirit of the game. As the tournament progresses, the matches will only get more competitive, promising a feast of football for the fans and an excellent developmental ground for the players involved.
Stay tuned for more updates as the MSSA inter-school football tournament continues to unfold, with each match contributing to a tapestry of thrilling sportsmanship and youthful exuberance.
