Ratnam to meet Renown in Phoenix Cup final

Published : 9:49 pm  December 7, 2011 |  One comment  |     |   (7)  |  

Defending champions, Ratnam, scored a thrilling one nil victory over formidable Saunders at City Football Complex on Wednesday to book a place in the final of the second Phoenix Cup knock-out soccer tournament.

In the seventh minute Ratnam had an easy chance of scoring but their forwards, Chryshanth Abeysekera and M. Niloufer, fumbled. N. Jayaweera of Saunders tried a half volley which went wide and his team mate M. Rizwan's well calculated kick was superbly saved by Ratnam custodian Shehan Sylveira in the 26th minute.

Ratnam player was angered by Referee B. M. S. Basanayake's decision for not awarding a penalty and he uttered something unusual towards the referee before being given marching orders. The score sheet was blank at the half time.

After the breather both teams fought equally and thrilled the crowd with attacking moves.But again the forwards of both teams were off target.

And at many times the referee had to show the yellow card to control the rough tactics adopted by both teams.

During the injury time, a free kick was taken by Mohammed Rawmi from 22 yards and unmarked Tharidu Eranged forged and slotted in to give Ratnam a great victory. Altogether six players were shown the yellow cards and one got the red.

Ratnam will play its neighbor club Renown on Saturday in the final.

(By Tony Mike)