Football Tournament 2017 | Match Four: 4th years vs PhD Scholars

One of the better sides in the tournament, the 4^th years commenced their campaign against the Ph.D. scholars. After their rollicking run in the Prem Ranjan Memorial Tournament last year, the Ph.D. scholars established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The two sides faced off against each other in an intense final last year, with the PhDs emerging victorious.  It was to be seen if the 4^th years could avenge their heartbreaking defeat.

The first half was dominated by the aggressive style of play employed by the 4^th years. Haridhar K, Monish Balraj and Nityanshu Sengar led the attack, with impressive pace and accurate passing. They were backed ably by Adithya Haneef. The defence was also well maintained with Joseph George and Mounika B playing admirably. And as expected, the 4^th years opened their account with a goal from Nityanshu, assisted by Monish . There were chances for several more goals, with Haridhar and Monish dominating the field. Certain parts of the field were waterlogged, severely cramping the pace of the game.

But things seemed to change in the second half. The PhDs, who were struggling to keep up with the 4^th years earlier, found themselves much more invigorated and eager. Dayal Paleri, Radheef, Jithin and Renjith began to up the ante with their new found pacing. Yet the 4^th years weren’t going to give in just yet. It seemed as though despite all, the 4^th years would prevail. That was when the most unlikely of happenings occurred. Biyas Muhammed, the talismanic goalkeeper of the 4^th years, let slip a slow volley by Dayal. As surprising as it was, the PhD scholars seized the opportunity and dug deep. Despite the the best efforts of the 4^th years to break the stalemate, the match resulted in a draw, with both sides tied at a goal each. The PhDs deserve a commendation for the fortitude with which they turned the proceedings in their favour. The 4^th years now face the freshies in their next game. They will hope to shrug off today’s disappointment and make a comeback with renewed vigour.

Report by Rahul Jose