Late double strike amid thunderstorm helped hosts Maharashtra to beat J&K by 3-1 in the opening game of the 70th Santosh football championship at Nagpur, Maharashtra on Monday.Going into match without Ishfaq Ahmad who had left team only days before the start JK started game positively and were able to hold on much fancied hosts in first half. Despite the pressure applied by host’s, JK’s young side gave no chance to Maharashtra to get an early lead. The first half ended 0-0.
However, in second half, everything changed as host’s started to attack from the start and were also able to score opening goal. However, JK bounced back and scored the equalizer. Shoiab was the scorer. As it seemed that match will culminate in 1-1 draw, thunderstorm coupled with heavy showers arrived. The match was continued that made field slippery. In-between hosts were able to get a penalty that made score line 2-1. In last minute of the game they went on to add another goal to the tally. Maharashtra won match by 3-1.
“It was tough game in which we were able to hold on for most part of the game. Though they are considered far better side than that of ours but my youngsters did the job by giving a strong fight back. If thunderstorm would not have arrived we may have earned a vital point,” said JK coach Hilal Parray.
“The win and loss is part of the game. It is about in which manner you do down. I am proud of this side and hope they go on to do better in remaining part of the tournament,” he added.
JK will next clash with Services on Wednesday.
