JEDDAH, 10 January 2004 — Asian Soccer defeated Blue Star-A by a solitary goal in a thrilling First Division Group-B match of the four-week-old SIFF-Sadafco Soccer league at the Ministry of Education Stadium here last night.
Another well-contested match was played earlier between Second Division sides Elaf-Asiana Yellow and Saudia Milk Combined Bros. with the former registering a 2-0 victory.
Blue Star-A goalkeeper Asif was adjudged the best player of the First Division match as he turned in a terrific all-round display that enabled his team restrict the margin of defeat.
His excellent ball collection and ‘saves’ drew loud cheers from the crowd. An injury forced him to leave the field midway through the match but his replacement Unni Kutty did equally well for Blue Star.
Blue Star were unlucky not to secure the equalizer despite a fine display of skills from their striker Yasser and winger Anees. Striker Riyas and winger Haris combined well for Asian Soccer.
In the earlier match, Asiana Yellow established a distinct edge over Combined Bros with their two goals.
Winger Abdul Rasheed scored the first goal from a long-range shot and later Zubair converted the penalty to establish the match-winning lead.
Abdul Rahim, goalkeeper of Asiana Yellow, was picked for the best player prize.
Dynamic Advertising Manager Muhammad Rafiq was the chief guest of the day. Referees were Muhammad Salim, Yousuf Yaqub and Isaq.
Gulf Cup Soccer Tournament
The 16th Gulf Cup Tournament resumes today after a day’s rest with Bahrain taking on Kuwait in what could be a crucial match for Bahrain in Kuwait City.
