St. Benedict’s College was the unfortunate victim of a Hameed Al Husseini College onslaught in the President’s Cup opener, which eventually ended in a 2 -1 victory to the latter at the Race Course International Stadium.
St. Benedict’s College coming off from a disappointed performance in their Division 1 group stage matches only registering 3 points, was handed the opportunity to bounce back from disappointment.
On the other hand, Hameed Al Husseini College was shrouded in total confidence as they were coming from a great spell in the Division 1 as they topped their group, and this was seen right from the kick off as M. Rishan and their captain, M. Aman took charge in midfield and dominated possession for their team.
This led to a formidable attack which proved too much for the St. Benedict’s back four as their defence was breached by a brilliant spell of passing that led M. Sajid slot one in for the hosts.
However, St. Benedict’s did not back down as 5 minutes later it was equalised by a great effort from Nison Deenu.
After the lively 10 minutes or so the game was pretty much open albeit with Hameed Al Husseini dominating more possession thus creating the greater amount of chances on goal.
It was ineveitable that Hameed Al Husseini College would eventually gain the upper hand once more, and it did at the brink of half time with Afzal Ahamed.
With that last attempt they retired to the dressing rooms for half time with delight.
Half time – Hameed Al Husseini College 2 – 1 St. Benedict’s College
The second half did not show much difference to the first half as the hosts dominated possession once more creating endless chances on goal, only to lack the icing on the cake.
St. Benedict’s College’s Shenal and Deenu did, however, keep the spirit alive to at least equalise, but came to no avail.
Overall it was a one sided affair as the hosts comfortably kept their lead against the boys in white, therefore resulting in a delightful opening victory for the hosts in the opening match of the prestigious President’s Cup.
Full Time – Hameed Al Husseini College 2 – 1 St. Benedict’s College
ThePapare.com Player of the Match – M. F. M. Aman (Hameed Al Husseini College)
Goal Scorers
Hameed Al Husseini College – A. G. M. Sajid ‘5, Afzal Ahamed ‘43
St. Benedict’s College – Nison Deenu ‘10
Bookings
Yellow Cards
Hameed Al Husseini College – Abdul Basith ‘5, M. A. J. M. Rishan ‘72
St. Benedict’s College – Raveen Dananjaya ‘44
