Thakur Vidyamandir notch up first win in inter-school football

Updated on: 21 July,2010 08:32 AM IST |
Husain M Zaidi |

Playing without a coach, Thakur Vidyamandir show tenacity to notch up their first win in under-16 div iii

Playing without a coach, Thakur Vidyamandir show tenacity to notch up their first win in under-16 div iii

The Kandivali school team's win was all the more creditable as they have been without a coach for this season and the players have been sweating it out alone for the tournament. Their fitness trainer, Ajay Burkhau has gone out of his way to help out in the team's training sessions alongwith their school teacher, Seema Pandya.

"We don't have a coach. It's only our fitness trainer and teacher who help us out in the practice sessions before and after school hours," said Pawar.

The game was played at a brisk pace as fortunes swung continuously but neither teams could capitalise on the opportunities created. Just when it seemed that the match would end in a goalless draw, Infant Jesus' defender came up with a late challenge on the far side to give Vidyamandir a golden chance to secure a win.

Pawar took the spot-kick and converted it effortlessly to trigger wild celebrations among his teammates. The goal came against the run of play as moments before the goal, Vidyamandir defenders were under a lot of pressure to stave off the rival strikers who pressed really hard in the dying minutes.

It was a lucky break for the Kandivali side and Pawar seized the opportunity.

A Miroslav Klose fan, Pawar was quick to point out the significance of effective team play.

"I'm really happy to be on the score sheet but I can't do anything on my own. No one can, until other players support him. If we remain united and play as a team we can achieve the desired results even without a proper coach," said the striker.

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