Star of Canara SC struck good form to score a decisive 2-1 win against Jai Bharat SC in the final and claim the top honours in the 9th Late Adv. A.R. Kudrolli Memorial Foootball Tournament, organised by KSA (Karnatak Sporting Association) and played at the KSA ground, Cross Maidan, Churchgate.
In a keenly contested final played between two evenly matched outfits, Star of Canara grabbed the early advantage with strikers Oliver Bennis and the experienced Melwyn Vaz striking a goal each in the first half. Jai Bharat fought on gamely but could only manage to score one goal, which came through Ravi Rathod to reduce the margin of defeat.
The champs, Star of Canara received the winner’s trophy and a cash award of Rs 25,000 from Chief Guest, Francis Fernandes, Junior India and Central Railway player. While Jai Hind were presented with the runners-up trophy and a cash prize of Rs 20,000.
Kisan Sulegai of Karnatak SC was adjudged as the ‘Best goalkeeper’, Savardhan Shetty of Udaya SC as the ‘Best defender’, while Valentine Pereira of Jai Bharat SC and Melwyn Vaz of Star of Canara SC were declared as the as the ‘Best mid fielder’ and Best forward’ respectively. All four received a cash award of Rs 1,000 each.
Results final: Star of Canara SC 2 (Oliver Bennis, Melwyn Vaz) beat Jai Bharat SC 1 (Ravi Rathod).
Other awards – Best goalkeeper: Kisan Sulegai (Karnatak SC); Best defender: Savardhan Shetty (Udaya SC); Best midfielder: Valentine Pereira (Jai Bharat SC); Best forward: Melwyn Vaz (Star of Canara SC).