KUWAIT CITY, Sept 28: In the inaugural game of the 35th Edition of the United Goans Centre (UGC) soccer tournament played at the Shuwaikh Fire Brigade Grounds which also marked the opening of the Kuwait Indian Football Federation (KIFF) 2010-2011 season, the Indian Strikers beat Santos Football Club by 2-1. In the second game which was played at the same venue the Navelim Youth Center prevailed on Skynet 3-2.
The first game failed to kick on time because much of the time was consumed by the opening ceremony. However, when it got going both teams began cautiously with neither side making serious attempts.
The stalemate was broken at quarter hour when Jagdish slotted the ball home to make it 1-0 for the Indian Strikers. Spurred with this goal, the Strikers played attacking soccer and five minutes later Jagdish made it 2-0.

Although it seemed the Indian Strikers would easily carry the day, Santos FC struck back with a stunning 15-meter drive through Nelson.
During the second half both teams played constructive soccer with some skilful moves but failed to find the net.
In the midst of the second half, Inas of the Santos FC, handled the ball in the penalty area and was rightfully given the marching orders. Jagdish took a step forward to take the spot kick, missed the target and an opportunity to score the hat-trick.
Although the second game was played under the scorching heat of the sun, both teams seemed determined to get the better of the other. The fast-paced game was dominated by the Navelim Youth Center but all their efforts were undone by the Skynet goalkeeper.

What looked like against run of play, the Skynet lads caught the Navelim defenders napping and took a shot at the goal; the ball hit the post and rebounded into play and newcomer Duresh made no mistake to put Skynet in front.
Buoyed by this goal, the Skynet lads kept up the pressure but Navelim who are known for their ‘do or die’ went all out for an equaliser but to their surprise it was Unni of the Skynet who scored the second goal after the change of ends.
Two goals up, Skynet began to relent and this attitude allowed Navelim into the game by scoring two quick goals one of them coming from the boots of Alleluia (Americo) — the latter from the penalty spot. A defensive lapse by the Skynet gave Navelim the victory.

The tournament is being played under the auspices of KIFF. The first match between the Indian Strikers and Santos FC was refereed by Edward, with Nazareth and Jerry on the lines and the second by Jerry, Simon and Rosario. The KIFF observer was Clifford Pinto.
Before the start of play during a short opening ceremony players and officials of the clubs taking part in the competition were introduced to KIFF President Fidelis Fernandes. The tournament organizing committee also took this opportunity to thank Manuel D’Costa for making it possible for the tournament matches to be played on this ground.
The MC for the event was KIFF Sports Secretary Bernard. The UCG also organized a ‘housie’ on the sidelines of the tournament. The prize — air ticket to Goa — was won by Joe of the UG. The Kuwait and India national anthems were played by DJ Mario.
Friday’s fixtures: 6:30 am Rawda Boys vs Rising Stars and at 8:00 am Goa Maroons vs Curtorcares United. Venue: the Shuwaikh Fire Brigade Grounds.