NIZ GOENKAR SOCCER TEAM MAKES ITS STUNNING DEBUT IN MUSCAT, OMAN

MUSCAT: The Niz Goenkar’s soccer team which was formed a few days ago, made their debut in the OICC All India 11-A-Side football tournament which witnessed 12 teams competing for the glittering OICC trophy at the Al Bustan Stadium on Friday, 26th November 2010.


The young team, playing against the regular stalwarts of soccer in Oman, put up a brilliant display of skills and combination to match the professionals in every area. Joe Vaz, Captain of Niz Goenkars, led skillfully his young and determined team but success eluded them. Many of the young lads had tears in their eyes after being knocked out of the tournament.

“A goalless draw against St. Francis Xavier Club did not help us”, said Johnny Barretto, Coach-cum-Manager of Niz Goenkars. “Even a one goal win would have made a big difference. The draw virtually put a brake on our aspirations of claiming the quarter finals berth due to the difference in points”, he further stated. “After conceding the opener to AIG, only a victory could have taken us through. If not for hitting the goalpost twice, our team could have sealed the victory and moved forward.”The young outfit of, Niz Goenkars totally dominated the proceedings against SFX. They displayed a power packed performance, but were unlucky not to score in the crucial match as the wood work came in between them and the net on a couple of occasions. Dawson, Terence, Mohsin, Sayid, Burairt and Sahid among others deserve special mention as they combined well in attack which on occasions frustrated and put their opposition in disarray. Captain, Joe Vaz, gave good morale support to his young, but talented team who played with determination and a “never say die” attitude.
“Niz Goenkars team was formed and put together at a very short notice. We did not have any match practice, as time was short and also some of the players had exams ongoing. Nevertheless, I am proud of my team and the way they played without faltering,” said Joe Vaz.

“Our boys were extraordinary and showed remarkable talent, playing like real professionals,” commented Johnny Barretto. “I am sure if we had time for a little match practice session, we could have come out on top. But all is not lost. We are planning to keep practicing regularly now as “one unit” and have already started planning our strategy for the next tournament to be held in February 2011,” he added.
“The support from Mr. Saturnino Rodrigues of Niz Goenkar, who could not be present on the grounds due to work commitment, also encouraged our lads to do well and we hope that we will get such back-up from Niz Goenkar in the future too,” commented Barretto.
The Kerala Black & White team won the tournament and the glittering OICC trophy by defeating Curtorim Gymkhana of Goa.