KUWAIT CITY, May 3: Nine weeks of action packed matches finally culminated in Goa Boys entering the record books as the worthy champions in the inaugural AFL (Asian Football League) organized by the Expatriate Football Federation-Kuwait (EFFK) at the now popular Fire Brigade ground (Shuwaikh) when they edged out Skynet Raiders 2-1 in a thrilling final on 23rd April 2010,  in a match which saw fortunes fluctuating until the final whistle. The tournament matches were played on a league cum knock out basis and included teams from Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and India and both finalists secured their spots in the final after overcoming tough opponents in the semifinals.  Since all the matches  were played in the evenings on Fridays, the spectators  also came out in large numbers to support their country teams and some of the largest crowds were witnessed during the Nepal, Thailand and Bangladesh encounters.
The entire tournament was very well officiated by the only profession expatriate football referees body in Kuwait ‘IFRA’ and as the centre official Richard blew the whistle to start the match ably supported by Julio,  Franics and Vincy his assistants, it was clear that nobody would be able to predict the winner. 
The game started on a frantic pace and Goa Boys took early control when Anthony’s 12th minute strike from a good distance outside the penalty area found the net, with the ball dipping past the outstretched hands of Skynet keeper Cassiano who was a little off his line, arousing  delirious celebrations by their supporters.  However, their joy was short lived as Sky net Raiders started exerting pressure to find the equalizer, and Remedio made no mistake when he scored off a direct free kick beating the Goa Boys keeper, veteran Henry from just outside the box to bring Sky net Raiders on level terms.  The first half ended 1-1.
In the second half, the IFRA officials did well to keep the game under control and in the 25th minute Goa Boys sealed the fate of Skynet Raiders when hard working Braulio connected well to  score from  a thunderous kick that left the Sky net keeper flabbergasted and ensuring his team inscribed their name first on the glittering trophy.
The presentation ceremony was ably handled by Julio Cardoso and trophies and medals were presented to the winners by chief organizers,  Milton Lord, Manual DCosta and special invitee Suheb Ismail Dawre.  Thailand were awarded the best disciplined team and the highest scorer of the tournament was won by Cruz of Churchill India  who went down fighting in the semi-finals.  The best goalkeeper in the final was given to Cassiano of Sky net Raiders and the Man of the Final was deservedly won by Michael of Goa Boys.  Game Breakers who lost a close semi-final match were awarded the third place medals.
Milton Lord and Manual DCosta on behalf of the  organizers wish to express their gratitude to the sponsors Agility Logistics, Al mailem group of companies, CD Soccer Inc, Suheb Ismail Dawre, Metro Express,  and Maha Stationary  all participating teams and the large number of spectators who attend the matches and made this first ever Asian Expatriate League a grand success. 
More info, Log on to www.effkuwait.com