Double delight for JSC

JEDDAH: In front of a big holiday crowd, Jeddah Sports Club celebrated double victory and lifted both under-14 and under-17 trophies in the second Friendship Cup Junior Football tournament conducted by Jeddah Sports Academy.
The month long event ended with JSC beat Sporting United in both categories. In under-14 category, JSC won by a solitary goal scored by Nabeel in the 20th minute. Sahal Zaheer’s brilliant double ensured under-17 trophy also for JSC, the second one coming in the beginning of extra-time.
JSC were leading 2-1 midway through the first half of extra-time when United protested a referee’s decision and refused to continue play. Saudi referee, who controlled the match, blew the final whistle after waiting for a few minutes. Earlier, United scored in the dying minutes of normal time in spite of being a man down after Afan got a straight red card in 56th minute.
In the thrilling under-14 final, both teams fought for control from the start. Nabeel’s goal gave JSC lead. However, JSC goalkeeper and their defense had to be at their best to fend off United’s challenge. Hazem’s shot got past the United goalkeeper, but the referee blew for offside. United went into the attack soon after the change of ends. However, later JSC settled down and regained control. On a couple of occasions JSC were deprived the lead by the woodwork and rival goalkeeper brilliants saved the third.
Shuaib of JSC was declared player of the match.
Nufais of JSC was chosen best goalkeeper (under-14), Haneen, best defender (Madul Uloom International school), Mehzin (best midfielder, JSC), BaMaaroof (best attacker and highest scorer, United) and Sameer (player of the Tournament, United).
The under-17 final between the best two expatriate academy teams rose to the expectation of the large crowd. Sahal and captain Basil led the attack for JSC. Every move of Akhil Kareem created panic in JSC half. Muiz Anver for JSC, Salman of United led their defense admirably. After a barren first half, Sahal struck for JSC midway through the second period.
From then on JSC attacked relentlessly. Referee had to caution three United players and one JSC player. When Afan was shown the red card, it seemed the end for United. However, a brilliant solo run by Akhil through the JSC defense created havoc and Nihal scored the equalizer.
Sahal was chosen player of the match, highest scorer and player of the tournament. Afnan (best goalkeeper, JSC), Salman (best defender, Soccer Freakz) and Akhil Kareem (best attacker, United).
Noufal, headmaster IISJ, Abdullah, Principal Mahd ul Uloom International School, Hifzurahman, SIFF president, Rasheed, IISJ sports teacher, Kannur Abdul Rafeeq, Founder Chairman of JSC were the guests at the presentation ceremony.