Striker Nihar Mhaske hogged the limelight on the opening day, notching up a fine hat-trick as Shelar FC stormed to a facile 3-0 win against I.C. Colts in the first league match of the inaugural Borivali Premier Football League (BPFL), organized by the Borivali Sports Foundation, and which commenced at the St. Francis D’Assissi Ground, Borivali (W).
The dashing forward struck two goals in the first half (18th & 28th minutes) to give Shelar FC a 2-0 cushion at half-time. He completed his hat-trick with another goal in the 42nd minute to seal the win for his team
In another league match, Ruthless FC scored once in each half to record a 2-0 win over Castle Boys FC with Keegan Pereira striking the first in the ninth minute before Dane Pereira got the second in the 37th minute.
Earlier, former India and Air India striker and current coach of Air India, Godfred Pereira inaugurated the tournament. Also present during the opening ceremony were former FIFA referee Alex Vaz, former international and national players and national level referees and other dignitaries.
Results (round 1): Ruthless FC 2 (Keegan Pereira 9th, Dane Pereira 37th) beat Castle Boys FC 0.
Shelar FC 3 (Nihar Mhaske 3 – 18th, 28th, 42nd) beat I.C. Colts FC 0.