JEDDAH, 11 August — The inaugural match of the SIFF-SADAFCO Soccer 2001 between Asian Soccer and Westar-ACC ended in a goalless draw at the Ministry of Education Stadium last night. The match played in the first division was one of wasted chances on the part of both. As a sizable weekend crowd of spectators filled the stadium’s western and eastern stands, the chief guest, Indian Consul General Syed Akbaruddin formally opened the seventh annual Saudi Indian Football Forum’s three-month league-cum-knockout tournament.
Dr. Abdullah Moopan, SIFF’s founder president and advisory board member, took the salute at a march past by participating teams, which also include International Indian School-Jeddah. This was followed by the introduction of the day’s playing teams to the guest of honor, Air-India Western Province Manager S. M. Mazharullah. SIFF President K. P. Abdul Salam and Secretary Aslam Cherat welcomed the guests.
Within a few minutes of the play, striker Riyazuddin of Westar-ACC missed the goal by inches while effecting a header. A few minutes later, Asian Soccer’s forward Mujib Rahman missed an opportunity to put his side ahead. Just before the break, Mujib again looked a gift horse in the mouth, failing to convert an excellent pass from his team’s winger.
Soon thereafter, Asian Soccer’s winger Ashraf failed to score with a weak, straight shot to Westar-ACC goalkeeper Abdul Rahman. Two players, both from opposing teams, were given the yellow cards for robust play soon after. The story of lost chances continued in the second half, despite the teams showing more aggression. Samir and Zakir Hussain missed a host of opportunities for Asian Soccer.
Mujib Rahman of Asian Soccer was declared the best player of the match. Referees were all Saudi professionals. The match referee was Muhammad Abdullah Salim. Abdurahman Hamza Houzawi and Yousuf Hamza Houzawi assisted him. The tournament will feature 26 other matches on 13 more Fridays up to early November.
Semifinal knockout rounds of the first and second divisions will be held on Oct. 19 and 26. Final matches in the two divisions will be played on Nov. 2. Fourteen teams are taking part in the tournament — six in the first division and eight others in the second division.
