Maligawatte YSC into quarters

by Leslie FERNANDO

FOOTBALL: Maligawatte Youth SC cleared the first hurdle with a close 2 goals to 1 victory over Young Silver SC, Wellawatta in the opening match of the City Football League Division One Clubs Invitation knock-out soccer tournament played for Phonix Cup and sponsored by Phonix Plastic played at City League ground yesterday.

Both sides played a well controlled game but Maligawatte Youth showed better tactical play and surged ahead in the 35th minute with a good goal coming off from M. Siyam. The winners maintained the lead till the break.

After the breather Maligawatte Youth outfit showed superiority in both attack and defence and increased the lead to 2-0 with M. Rukshan netting a fine goal. Young Silver SC reduced the lead 1-2 when Wasim Kamal drove in a powerful drive to hit the net.

With this win Maligawatte Youth SC qualified to meet Renown SC in the first quarter-final to be played on January 23.

Today Blue Star SC, Kalutara will take on Sarasavi SC in the second match of the tournament to be played at 3.30 p.m.

Hurley Sylveria, President of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka was the chief guest yesterday.