Vaishnavi helps Canossa to victory

Vaishnavi Shetty of Canossa Convent, Mahim had big boots to fill after her side's star striker Tejaswini Mangaonkar couldn't take any further part in their school's under-16 football campaign.

Tejaswini, who left to play for the State side a couple of days ago, scored 10 goals in just three games for her school.

Undeterred by Tejaswini's loss, Vaishnavi stepped up for Canossa Convent and struck the winner to make it four wins in as many games as they beat Greenlawns School, Worli 1-0. In fact, it was her first ever goal in a competitive game.

"There was a bit of pressure after Tejaswini left but I think we coped up well in her absence. Scoring my first goal was a very happy moment for me. I wasn't expecting to score," said Vaishnavi.

Thirteen-year-old Vaishnavi's tryst with the game started just a year back when she started playing with the neighbouring boys.

Apart from football, she is actively involved in hockey, cricket and has a brown belt in karate. Interestingly, she is trained in karate by her father, Santosh.

"She doesn't like sitting idle and wants to get involved in something or the other," said Santosh.
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