Brilliant Koli is the Don of Bosco's

Custodian's fine work helps Matunga outfit beat St Stanislaus (Bandra) 2-0 to lift Fr Donnelly Challenge Cup under-14 hockey title

Six shots saved by Don Bosco custodian Aaron Koli, helped defeat arch-rivals St Stanislaus (Bandra) 2-0 to lift the Mumbai School Sports Association (MSSA) Fr Donnelly Challenge Cup for boys under-14 hockey title at St Stanislaus ground yesterday.



Aradhaya Deolekar gave the Matunga outfit the lead in the 20th minute, while Marc D'Souza doubled it in the 39th minute. The duo was ably supported by Aidan D'Costa and Troy D'Souza.

Don Bosco began the match promisingly, coming close to scoring thrice within the first 10 minutes. The Bandra team tried desperately to make inroads, but were unable to match up to the Matunga team.

St Stanislaus' Melchoir Fernandes and Earl Almeida came close to scoring a field goal in the second half, but Bosco's goalkeeper Koli kept them at bay.

Bosco displayed a better brand of hockey and with their midfield play, they maintained a better possession of the ball.

All-rounder Koli
Koli, who is also the football goalkeeper for his school team, credited hockey for his quick reflexes. "I started playing cricket when I was in Class III. I switched to hockey before making it to the school's football team.
"I love football, but I can never stop playing hockey as it helps me being quick on the field. I'm glad that we were able to beat Stanislaus on their home ground to defend the title," 13-year-old Sewri resident told
MiD DAY.