Al Azhar Central College, Thihariya out-played Muslim Central College, Kalutara 3 goals to 2 in the first semifinal of the Invitation Oxford President’s Championship to book their place in the final.
The match got off to a fine start with the Kalutara boys posing a big threat to the Al Azhar team for nearly 18 minutes.
Things changed at this moment when Al Azhar CC got off to the lead when a corner kick was well placed for a striker to head the ball into the goal for the most needed lead. They held this lead up to the half time keeping their opponents at bay.
In the second session Al Azhar boys came out with more confidence and were attacking from the beginning which brought in good results within 10 minutes to put them to a strong position 2-0. The Kalutara team fought gallantly from there onwards and reduced the lead and through a penalty they added another goal 2-2.
With 15 minutes left for the final whistle Thihariya’s forwards with brilliant passing found the net which sealed victory and the place in the final.
The second semi final saw Hameed Al Husseinie College playing brilliantly to dominate the game completely to defeat Isipathana College three goals to nil yesterday at the Race Course ground. At Half time Hameed Al Hussienie College were leading 1-0.
Returning for the second half Hameedians never allowed their opponents to penetrate their defence line and kept on attacking with the aim of adding more to their score. Their efforts produced results and they were able to add two more goals to seal victory and enter the
final scheduled to be played at the same venue on April 4.
Hameedians will clash with Aal Azhar Central College while Muslim Central College Kalutara will take on Isipathana College in the play-off prior to the final.
The tournament is organized by Hameed Al Hussienie’s 80 Group for the 12th year.