Maldives captain Imkan Ibrahim’s free kick drew the first U14 friendly between Sri Lanka and Maldives 2-2 at the Sports Ministry Grounds.
The Maldivians headed by Imkan Ibrahim, held possession of the ball for the better part of the first half. They managed to achieve two corner kicks out of which, one was almost headed in but ended up just sailing wide off the left goal post.
Although the Maldives team seemed to dominate the first half they were unsuccessful in convertingtheir shots on goal. These missed opportunities were countered by the host nation and in the last 10 minutes of the first half, Sri Lanka focused on consistent passing drills and was able to put pressure on their opponents.
DiniduKavinda displayed an impressive solo performance, working the ball through to the goal from 20 meters out and almost scored one for the team but missed the goal by inches off the right post. With 2 minutes remaining for the half time whistle, Sri Lankan player PraneethShaminda, looped a curve ball, pass the Maldivian goalkeeper over his head, and into the goal putting his team in the lead by 1 goal to nothing at half time.
With 10 minutes in to the second half, Sri Lankan goalkeeper Themiya Dias’s clumsy hands let pass an easy stop allowing Ibrahim to roll the ball comfortably into the goal. With the scores now tied, the ball traveled back and forth, both teams trying to score one last winning goal.
With almost equal share of possession the score remained tied at 1-1 until the 43rd minute when Sri Lankan youngster RuzaikAhamed managed to shoot a splendid shot straight past the goalkeeper into the upper left corner, putting them in what looked like a comfortable lead with just over 15 minutes remaining.
However the Maldivians were not ready to surrender just yet. After just 6 minutes from the second Sri Lankan goal, Maldivian captain Ibrahim was able to tie the game again and score his second goal by converting a free kick past the helpless goalkeeper Dias, who had no chance of stopping it.
The hosts had one last golden opportunity to score the winner in the dying moments but the goal mouth scramble was cleared away by the Maldives defense ending the match 2-2.
The second match of this tour will take place on the 9th of June at Kingswood College Grounds against Kandy District U14 Football team.
