IFRA Soccer Tournament - Thailand XI and Fahaheel Brothers advance
Kuwait: In an exciting first round match of the I.F.R.A ‘eleven a side’ open soccer tournament organized by the Indian Football Referees Association (IFRA) and played at the Dayia Grounds, Fahaheel Brothers overcame a strong Goa Maroons 1-0 with the all important goal being scored by man of the match Gibu Varghese in the first period of extra time after normal time had ended goalless.
The game rose to great heights with the large number of supporters of both teams being entertained in a tight contest with some good moves and tactics from both team. Although Goa Maroons had slightly better ball possession with Steven Rodrigues and Elvis missing a couple of chances, the physically stronger Fahaheel team were more dangerous in counter attacks and Mustafa, Gibu and Muneer were a constant threat to the Maroons goal.
Fahaheel Brothers now play DHL Express in the quarter finals, which again promises to be an exciting match. The man of the match was presented by Xavier Furtado, who was the chief guest for the match and the game was officiated by IFRA’s own officials, Anthony D’Costa in the center and assisted by Sarto and Tiago on the lines.
In an earlier match, Thailand XI easily beat Bangladesh XI 4-0 in an one sided match to advance to the quarter finals where they will meet favorites and a strong ‘Goa Boys’. The match having an international feel to it with the teams wearing their national colours got off to a robust start with Bangladesh making early forays in the Thailand goal. However, Thailand quickly got into their stride and the flood gate opened with goals by Vinyoo in the 24th and 31st minute and Phongpat in the 27th, leaving the Thailand team 3-0 up at half time.
Weerayud scored the 4th in the 50th minute to complete the rout and advance to the quarter finals. The man of the match was given by IFRA General Secretary, Junifer Rodrigues to the brilliant Winyoo Pheangmanee of Thailand XI for his two goals as well as individual skills . The match was officiated by Alvaro Dias and well assisted by Tony D’Costa and Nicholas Fernandes.
The quarter final matches of this prestigious tournament organized by IFRA to celebrate 30 years of existence with the participation of 16 Asian teams, are slated for Friday, 18th February 2011.
In the first match, Thailand XI take on GOA Boys at 2:00pm; followed by St. Anthony Colva versus AVC at 3:15pm. All teams are requested to be on time. IFRA thanks all for their cooperation.
Photos by Jose C. Afonso. Report by Julio Cardoso For more photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/ifra.kw/IFRA30YearsCelebration04?authkey=Gv1sRgCJX5vPynqry5-gE&feat=email# http://www.ekuwaitindians.com/showsports.php?subaction=showfull&id=1297793399&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&;
