TRIPURA SPORTS

I don’t want to emulate anyone: Sabeeth

2012-01-19T12:08:00.000+05:30

Chirachal Sathyan Sabeeth (CS Sabeeth)

Date of Birth: 12/02/1990

Place of Birth: Ooty, Tamil Nadu.

Nickname: C S

Teams Played For: VIVA Kerala, Pailan Arrows (Present)Position : Striker

He was just 13 years old when he fell in love with the Beautiful Game. There were ample reasons for that. At that time, a plethora of star footballers had made it big from ‘God’s Own Country.’ There was the late VP Sathyan, the mercurial I M Vijayan, the omnipresent Pappchan and the talented Jo Paul Ancheri who had already made it big. Born in Ooty, Sabeeth watched them in front of his eyes and dreamt of staying true to tradition.

“I was studying in 8th standard at Government Secondary School, Ooty, when the sport first appealed to me. I watched my father (C. Sathyan) play. He was a player with Tamil Nadu Police. He was the main source of motivation,” says Sabeeth who is currently a part of the Pailan Arrows participating in the I-League.

Sabeeth, often touted as the next big thing from Kerala first caught the eye when he played for the India U-19 National Team. Ask him about his future and the 21-year old striker will tell you that his dream stays to play in England. But before doing that he wants to cement his place in the Indian Senior team. “I need to score goals. I need to score regularly,” he adds.

The Liverpool fan stays a die-hard fan of French striker Thierry Henry. But Bhaichung Bhutia inspires him more. “Bhaichung has been a role model for the present generation. He was deadly in the box,” he comments.

“But I don’t want to emulate anyone. I like to be myself. I just want to score goals and be remembered as someone who played for the country and played a part in taking Indian football to the next level.”

Churchill beat Shillong Lajong 2-0

2012-01-19T12:06:00.000+05:30

Churchill Brothers SC 2 (Roberto Silva – 34^th & 78^th)

Beat

Shillong Lajong 0

SHILLONG: Roberto Silva scored a brace to help Churchill Brothers beat hosts Shillong Lajong in the 15^th round I-League encounter at the

J N Sports Complex in Shillong, on Wednesday.

Playing before the packed stadium Lajong fans returned disappointed as their favorite team did not give them reason to cheers.

Churchill who played exceptional game throughout netted their first goal in the 34th minute off a spot kick, when Lajong skipper Zenith Mashangva, handled the ball inside the box, to which visitors captain Roberto Silva made no mistake to place the ball inside the net.

In the 44th minute Goan custodian Felix d’ Souza had real test in the entire first half, when he beautifully flicked off the Eugenson Lyngdoh’s shot from the corner.

Changing the side, though Lajong did created few chances to level the score but strikers weren’t upto the mark upfront.

In the 78^th minute Roberto completed his brace to give Churchill 2-0 win over local favourites. He was adjudged man of the match for his

outstanding performance.

The scoreline remained the same till the final whistle.

With this win Churchill now have 29 points from 14 matches while Lajong stays at 17 points from 15 outings.

The 10^th round encounter between the two was won by Churchill by 6-0.

Dempo SC 3 (Ranti Martins – 54^th & 88^th; Koko Sakibo – 77^th)

Beat

Air India 1 (Sandeep Sangha – 90+)

Dempo thrash Air India 3-1

PUNE: Dempo SC regained its top position of the league table after comfortably beating 10-man Air India 3-1 in the 15^th round I-League

encounter at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune on Wednesday.

Ranti Martins was in the thick of action and scored two goals in 56^th & 88^th minutes after having missed a penalty early in the match, while fellow striker Koko Sakibo scored a piece in 77^thminute as Dempo showed that the loss at home in December was just an aberration.

For Air India Sandeep Sangha reduced the deficit in injury time bringing in some consolation.

Initially missing a penalty by Dempo, Air India took advantage and attacked them with full force. Henry Ezeh and Sandeep Sangha created two chances upfront but Ezeh wasted the efforts.

After the break, Dempo decided to go for the kill. Goans took the lead through Ranti Martins when he forced the ball in on Cressan Antao’s pass

Dempo then began to control the pace of the match, passing well between the exchanges with Koko and Ranti wreaking havoc upfront.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Denzil Theobald then set up Koko Sakibo who slotted the ball in to the left of overworked Pawan in the 77th minute.

Ranti was again in a thick of a action when he took advantage of a mix-up in the rival defence as Koko and Ranti toyed with the ball before founding the back of the net in 88th minute.

Air India now have 20 points from 15 matches.

Man-of-the-match was awarded to Koko Sakibo (Dempo)

Salgaocar SC 4 (Francis Fernandes – 12^th; Ryuji Sueoka – 54^th; Gilbert Oliveira – 71st; Randeep Singh – 85^th)

Beat

HAL Bangalore 0

Salgaocar blank HAL 4-0

GOA: Salgaocar Sports Club coasted to an expectedly comfortable 4-0 victory over bottom-placed HAL in a 15th round I-League clash at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday.

Salgaocar have now accumulated 16 points from their last six matches to take their points tally to 25 while HAL, with just three points in their kitty, will find it increasingly difficult to save themselves from relegation.

Francis Fernandes, Ryuji Sueoka, Gilbert Oliveira and Randeep Singh got the goals for the defending champions, who led 1-0 at the breather.

Salgaocar seemed eager to open their account with a flurry of attacks at the start. The defending champions surged ahead in the 12th minute when HAL goalkeeper P Pramod allowed Francis Fernandes all the time in the world to head home Tomba Singh’s measured cross.

Salgaocar’s second goal was another defensive lapse, this time Nicolau Colaco’s cross was headed into the nets by Ryuji Sueoka.

The third goal from the hosts was a gem in the 71st minute. An overhead ball from Rocus Lamare was controlled by Gilbert Oliveira. The midfielder then drew out the goalkeeper and finished off with a nice placement.

Randeep Singh then scored with his first touch as the midfielders powerful shot from just inside the box – after being fed on the platter by Gilbert – rocked the crossbar and sailed into the nets.

HAL failed to make their presence felt and it was made worse when defender Liliyan Ketteth was sent off for a second bookable offence in the 78th minute.

The Bangalore side did not have even a single attempt on goal.

Man of the match was awarded to Francis Fernandes.

Pune prove too classy for Mumbai FC

2012-01-19T12:04:00.000+05:30

Pune FC 3 (Subhash Singh – 25^th & 67^th; Gurjinder Kumar – 90+)

Beat

Mumbai FC 0

PUNE: Pune FC’s potential in playing class football was on show in the Maha-Derby against Mumbai FC in the Round XV match of the I-League at the Balewadi Sports Complex.

Inspired by the triumvirate of Subhash Singh, Arata Izumi and Jeje Lalpekhlua, Pune FC defeated Mumbai FC 3-0 in an entertainingly fast-paced match that unfortunately turned into a fist-fight when Mumbai FC realised that they were being trampled upon by the home side.

Subhash Singh scored a brace—his goals coming in the 20^th and 67^th minutes, while Gurjinder Kumar netted home the third goal in the 89^th minute of the match. With this win, Pune FC regained its No 5 position with 26 points while Mumbai FC stay on 14 points from 15 matches.

While trying to take control of the ball, Anas Edathodika lost his temper when Keegan provoked him. In the ensuing melee, Anas apparently hit Keegan and the referee was quick to show red card. Keegan, however, kept pestering even as his team members tried to pacify before the referee Francisco Fernandez flashed the red card to Keegan to leave both the teams with 10 men.

That aside, the match was high-quality with Pune FC playing superb game upfront. Crowd favourite Arata’s presence was instrumental as he created chances and kept Subhash Singh on the go. The efforts of strikers were nonetheless backed up by Lester Fernandes and Douhou Peirre -- both sending neat passes that spilt the Mumbai FC defence on several occasions.

The first goal came off Jeje’s move when he was brought down for the second time in the match that earned Pune FC a free-kick 60 yards from the post. Douhou floated in the free-kick on the second post, Gurjinder mistimed it and as the ball went off a defender, it caught Subhash on wrong foot. Without wasting time, Subhash snapshot to the far corner from an acute angle to stun Mumbai FC.

Arata deserved to be among the scorers, but he would be happy to have assisted so many attacks that Pune FC carried leaving Mumbai FC flummoxed. The pace with which Pune FC played was something never seen in the recent past — showing that they have it in them to fire against any kind of opposition.

As Mumbai FC’s Gbeneme Friday failed to get going, it was the Arata-Subhash Singh combine that won the day for Pune FC. But after the fracas, Pune FC slowed down and played to eat up the time.

Mumbai FC tried to sneak past on a couple of occasions, but Friday and Co were not up to the mark. With a minute left for the regulation time to end, Gurjinder cut through the defence and slotted home the winning goal, much to the chagrin of Mumbai FC.

Man-of-the-match: Subhash Singh.

Sporting challenge for confident Bagan

2012-01-19T12:03:00.001+05:30

MARGAO: McDowell Mohun Bagan stay confident that they can repeat their performance in Goa and collect full points against Sporting Clube de Goa in a crucial I-League clash to be played at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Thursday (December 19).

“We have to be careful. We cannot afford to take Sporting Clube for granted since they are playing at home and are known to be a competitive team. We cannot lose points for sure but it’s a match where we can pocket a win as well,” said Bagan Technical Director Subrata Bhattacharya.

Mohun Bagan relied overwhelmingly on mercurial striker Odafe Okolie’s hat-trick to clobber Churchill Brothers and the visitors will hope for a similar performance from the Nigerian striker. Brazilian striker Jose Ramirez Barreto also played an influential role in the team’s last win.

Sporting Clube stay aware of Mohun Bagan’s threat but are quietly confident that they can manage an upset of sorts. Sporting have four points from the last two matches -- after a torrid run in seven games -- and are now gaining in confidence.

“It’s our home match so obviously we have an advantage. We know what we intend to do against Bagan,” said Sporting Clube Technical Director Alex Alvares. Alvares is expected to field the same squad that won against Pailan Arrows, and although the scoreline suggests Sporting Clube only managed a 3-2 victory, Alvares was quick to point out that they were the dominant side throughout.

“We missed innumerable chances. The second half was totally dominated by us and Pailan were lucky not to lose by a bigger margin,” said Alvares.

Sporting Clube have 17 points in their kitty from 14 matches while Bagan stay on 27 points from 14 matches. The kick-off is slated for 3.30pm.

Prayag cautious ahead of ‘prestige battle’

KOLKATA: Prayag United SC take on Chirag Kerala in a grudge match at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Thursday (January 19). Prayag who have been the surprise package so far stay on 22 points from 14 matches while Chirag United Kerala sit precariously close to relegation -- with 11 points from 14 matches.

In a way it’s a home coming of the Chirag who stayed the sponsors of their rival team for a number of years before deciding to shift to Kerala.

Sanjoy Sen, Prayag United’s Coach said: “It might not be a derby match but it is a matter of prestige for the club.” So much so, that even Prayag United officials visited the team’s practice session in an effort to boost the morale ahead of the big clash.

For Prayag United, Lalkamal Bhowmick is out due to an injury. He will be missing about four weeks of action due to a shoulder dislocation. Jayanta Sen replaces him.

Sen, however, put up a brace face. “We have a ready replacement for him and have played many crucial matches without Lalkamal. We have a backup plan ready,” he commented. “It’s not right to underestimate any opposition. We beat Dempo in the first phase but had to settle for draws against lower-ranked teams.”

Chirag United Kerala had a short afternoon practice session. Coach Fakir Ali seemed confident ahead of the clash and hoped to take full points from this match. Chirag have come to Kolkata with a full strength team and will hope for a win that can give them a boost in avoiding relegation.

The kick-off is at 2pm.

Pune FC enjoy an edge

2012-01-19T12:01:00.000+05:30

PUNE: There is no other go for Derrick Pereira’s team but to force a win against Mumbai FC when the two teams meet up in the Round XV clash in the I-League at the Balewadi Sports Complex.

Currently on 23 points from 14 matches, this is the perfect opportunity for Pune FC to consolidate their position. They need to remember that defending champions Salgaocar SC and Prayag United SC stay on their heels – just one point behind.

Mumbai FC have been on a losing streak at home after Chirag United and Salgaocar scored victories early this month, and it would be right moment for Pune FC to strike after the two teams played out a goalless draw exactly one month ago at this same ground. Mumbai FC stay on 14 points from 14 matches.

Derrick Pereira’s boys need to find a solution to get their rhythm right after their rivals claimed a goalless draw in their last outing.

“We will need to work harder,” explained Derrick. “We need to create chances and convert them effectively. Last time we played them, we were held to a draw, This time, our plans stay different,” he added.

While Pune FC has fared well at home they still seek that elusive victory over Mumbai FC. Pune will, however, be without their top scorer Mandjou Keita who will have to sit out courtsey a double booking.

“The break will be a much needed rest for him and will help him come back stronger.” Derrick commented. “In Keita’s absence, I’m looking at others to step up and do as well,” he said.

The kick-off is at 6.30pm.

Lajong take on Churchill in Shillong

SHILLONG: Meanwhile, I-League football returns to Shillong as Shillong Lajong Football Club will be taking on Churchill Brothers at the Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The Nehru Stadium sports a new look with the newly laid artificial turf all reday to host the action. This is Lajong’s first match in Shillong as they had played all their earlier home matches in Guwahati.

Lajong stay on 17 points from 14 matches while Churchill Brothers are on 26 points from 13 matches.

East Bengal prove too strong for Pailan Arrows

2012-01-19T11:52:00.003+05:30

Kingfisher East Bengal 4 (Penn Orji -- 27^th; Tolgay Ozbey -- 30th & 76^th; Robert Lalthlamuana -- 57th)

Beat

Pailan Arrows 1 (Prathamesh Maulingkar -- 60th)

KOLKATA: Pailan Arrows proved out to be no match for resurgent Kingfisher East Bengal, as the hosts defeated Arrows by 4-1 in the 15th round I-League clash, played at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, on Monday (January 17). After Pen Orji had opened the scoring for East Bengal in the 27^thminute, Tolgay Ozbey scored a brace in 30th & 76th minute respectively. Robert Lalthlamuana scored East Bengal’s fourth goal in the 57th minute. The consolation goal for Pailan was scored by stopper-back Prathamesh Maulingkar in 60th minute. Australian Tolgay turned out to be the difference between the two teams, as he remained a constant threat upfront along with Penn Orji. East Bengal, who began on an aggressive note put constant pressure on the Pailan defence. And it yielded results soon. Pailan conceded the first goal in 27th minute, when Orji headed in a rebound after rival goalkeeper Naveen Kumar had denied Sanju Pradhan from close. Three minutes later, Penn passed the ball to Tolgay, who blasted in as powerful left- footer to double the score. The scoreline stayed two-nil in favour of the Red-and-gold at the interval. Changing over, East Bengal kept up the pressure. The strategy proved successful again in the 57th minute when Penn cleverly passed the ball to Robert Lalthlamuana, who came in out of nowhere to score the third goal. Tolgay again found the back of the Pailan’s empty net to score a brace in 76th minute. Pailan did pull one back in the 60^th minute when Prathamesh Maulingkar headed in a Prabir Das corner. The 10th round encounter between the two teams had ended in a goalless draw. With this win East Bengal moved to 30 points from 15 matches while Pailan stay on 7 points from 14 matches. Tolgay Ozbey was adjudged the Man of the Match.

Dempo aim for revenge

PUNE: Armando Colaco’s Dempo Sports Club will definitely not take things easy when they meet Air India in the Round XV match of the I-League at the Balewadi Sports Complex on Wednesday (January 18).

After being clear leaders in the early part of the season for seven rounds, Dempo crashed to three defeats in a row and it was Air India’s 2-0 away win in Fatorda that had shown to all the Goan team’s defence was vulnerable.

Since then, Dempo has remained tentative and have lost only one of the next four matches. At present, they stay at the top with 30 points from 14 matches, three points clear of Kolkata teams, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. Their rivals Air India are on 20 points from 14 matches.

In the last match against Chirag United Kerala, Dempo had plenty of misses but early strikes from Clifford Miranda and Ranti Martins were enough for the league leaders to stay ahead of the chasing pack.

However, Air India would not be such an easy meat at home. On Saturday, Air India’s defence spearheaded by Collin Abranches, Lamine Tamba and Muhammed Shafi frustrated Shillong Lajong no end in a goalless draw.

Dempo will have to go all guns firing as Kali Alaudeen, who captained Air India in the last match, can shift roles effortlessly and is good at either positions, in the midfield or defence. Striker Sandesh Gadkari was off-colour and had to be substituted in the second half, but Sandeep Sangha worked nicely upfront with Alaudeen keeping him busy all the time.

In the last five encounters, Air India has won two, lost two and drawn one — their last win coming just before Christmas against Pailan Arrows. Air India hasn’t done badly given that much wasn’t expected from the Mumbai outfit, who was forced to adopt Pune as home for this season.

The kick-off is slated for 2.30pm.

Salgaocar want to break into top-five

MARGAO: Salgaocar Sports Club stay aware they can jump to the top-five spot for the first time should they manage to get past struggling HAL at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday (January 18). Salgaocar are placed seventh at the moment with 22 points and a win against the bottom-placed squad will help them jump two spots and closer to a place they believe they belong; whereas HAL stay at the borrom of the League with 3 goals from 14 matches.

“We have to continue making progress. We have done well in the last five games but three points against HAL are an absolute must now,” said Salgaocar coach Karim Bencherifa.

Salgaocar had struggled to post a solitary goal win against HAL in the first leg at Bangalore and Bencherifa feels they team would have to be at their best to replicate the result at Fatorda.

“The slow start in the beginning taught us some lessons and one lesson which we learnt was that you don’t win if you don’t work really, really, hard. Whether it’s a top team or one at the bottom, there cannot be an exception. We have to really work hard for full points,” said Bencherifa.

The coach, however, was happy that his team has enjoyed a good run of form in the last five matches, that too without some of their key players. “We have managed to achieve some level of consistency and if you see the records, we have missed quite a few players. That’s an encouraging sign,” said the coach.

Unless there is a dramatic change in fortunes in the next couple of matches, HAL’s relegation becomes almost inevitable. The Bangalore side has not won a single game in the competition -- only Pailan Arrows has such a dubious record -- and are sitting at the bottom of the pool with three points in their kitty.

The kick-off is at 3.30pm.

Jeje and Joaquim are exceptional strikers: Ranti

2012-01-19T11:50:00.001+05:30

NEW DELHI: Ranti Martins Soleye has been synonymous with goals from the time he has played in India. The Dempo striker stays at the top of the goalscorer’s list with 15 goals (after 14 rounds) and aims to finish at the top at the end of the season. In a free-wheeling interview with www.the-aiff.com,Ranti spoke at length about his performance, his life in India and his rivalry with his country mate and Mohun Bagan’s talismanic striker Odefe Okolie.

How much satisfying is it to score goals?

It feels great and obviously feels good when you score goals. The support from my family and teammates help me focus on the field. My goals have so far helped my team stay at the top of the I-League. I feel, the situation stays the same till the end.

You have spearheaded Dempo’s attack since 2004. Describe your experience with the Goan giants.

It’s been a learning curve for me. It’s also an honour to play for such a prestigious Club. Dempo have always had a handful of players who regularly play for the Indian National Team, from whom you get to learn a lot. I have no complaints so far.

What is the secret behind Ranti the goal machine?

Hard work and dedication stay the most important. Besides, the support of my management, teammates and family can never be undermined.

Where do you see Indian football heading towards?

The quality of play has certainly improved in the last decade. I feel attention needs to be paid towards building of infrastructure, as well as grooming and support the young talent. There is lot of talent in India -- all one needs to do is to identify them and provide them the right platform.

Foreign Strikers have hogged the limelight in the I-League for some years now. Are Indian strikers not good enough?

There’s not much difference between Indian and foreign strikers. Look at Jeje Lalpekhlua and Joaquim Abranches – they are exceptional -- good as any foreign recruit. The sole difference stays that we (foreigners) start football at very young age -- by 11-12. Besides, the infrastructure foreign recruits practice at that age helps groom them as a player. I’d only say Indian strikers need to be a bit more positive.

What about your rivalry with Odafe Okolie?

Odafa is an exceptional talent. He inspires and challenges me to work harder. Both of us are different kind of players but he is my compatriot and we hail from the same country. Our objectives stay the same – score goals and help our respective teams win. We are good pals – there’s no rivalry.

What’s your take on Dempo’s I-League campaign?

Though the last few rounds have been difficult for us, we are on the right track for sure. We would have some more recruits joining us soon which would make us stronger.

East Bengal want to come back to winning ways

2012-01-19T11:49:00.003+05:30

KOLKATA: Not everything stays perfect for Pailan Arrows at the moment. Currently ranked 2^nd from the bottom of the table, the Arrows take on strong contenders Kingfisher East Bengal at the Salt Lake Stadium on Tuesday (January 17). East Bengal are presently on 27 points from 14 matches while Pailan stay on 7 points from 13 matches.

However, East Bengal are not in the best of form. Having drawn the previous match against Pune FC, the Red-and-Gold desperately need a win against Pailan. The last time the two teams met, the match ended in a goalless draw.

East Bengan’s Coach Trevor Morgan said: “It is tough for any team to break down an opponent who prefers to play defensively. In our previous encounter Pailan looked like they would be satisfied with a point and they achieved it at the end.”

In response, however, Sukhwinder Singh, the Technical Director of Pailan Arrows said: ‘In our previous encounter against East Bengal, we were under pressure and hence, couldn’t attack. We did not go in with a defensive mindset and even on Tuesday, we intend to play attacking football.”

When asked about his team’s inability to get a victory till now in the League, he added: “We are playing well as a team but are looking for that one moment of extraordinary brilliance which will win us our first match.” Luckily for Pailan, they don’t have any injury worries at all.

East Bengal on the other hand will be without Nirmal Chhetri who is injured. Saumik Dey will also sit out due to a suspension. They are likely to be replaced by Harmanjot Khabra and Robert Lalthalamuana respectively.

Morgan wasn’t willing to read much into their last match against Pune FC which ended goalless. “We have created chances but haven’t been able to convert them against Pune FC. I’m not worried at all,” he quipped.

Meanwhile, Edmilson who replaced Alan Gow is unlikely to get a start against Pailan as Morgan intends to give him some time to settle down. The kick-off is slated for 2pm.

Two T20 Internationals and ODI tri-series in Australia

2012-01-19T11:46:00.003+05:30

Mumbai : The All-India Senior Selection Committee met in Chennai earlier today to select the Indian team for the two T20 Internationals and ODI tri-series in Australia.

INDIAN TEAM

1. MS Dhoni (Captain)

2. Virender Sehwag (Vice-Captain)

3. Gautam Gambhir

4. Sachin Tendulkar

5. Virat Kohli

6. Rohit Sharma

7. Suresh Raina

8. Ravindra Jadeja

9. R Ashwin

10. Umesh Yadav

11. Praveen Kumar

12. Vinay Kumar

13. Manoj Tiwary

14. Rahul Sharma

15. Parthiv Patel

16. Zaheer Khan

17. Irfan Pathan

Odafe hat-trick wins it for Bagan

2012-01-19T11:45:00.005+05:30

McDowells Mohun Bagan 3 (Odafe Okolie 19^th, 73^rd, 74^th)

Beat

Churchill Brothers 2 (Lalrindika Ralte 4^th, Henry 81^st)

GOA: Mohun Bagan did well to snatch full points after being down early in the game against Churchill Brothers in 14^th round I-league clash

at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Sunday.

Lalrindika Ralte had scored in the fifth minute to give Churchill Brothers an early lead in this crucial clash but Odafe Okolie scored a hat-trick – including one penalty -- to ensure the visitors walked away with 3-2 victory.

In what was essentially a must win clash for Churchill, the hosts started earnestly and were lucky to surge ahead as early as the fifth minute of play. Steven Dias, as usual, worked his way down the right flank and found Mohammad Rafi just outside the box. The striker sidestepped Anwar Ali, his marker, and then picked out Lalrindika Ralte just inside the box to turn home with his right foot, even as the entire Bagan defence just stood motionless and watched.

Bagan took that setback in their stride and continued attacking with Odafe being a constant threat. Soon enough, Odafe sent a brilliant long ball from one end to the other where Jewel Raja controlled it well but his resultant half volley hit the crossbar.

Bagan were not to be denied a second time and equalised in the 19th minute when Syed Rahim Nabi’s measured cross was chested by Odafe and then drilled past rival goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharya.

Odafe was again in the thick of action but was distinctly unlucky as his stunning long ranger hit the crossbar and rebounded back into play.

Odafe then turned the match on its head with two goals in as many minutes. In the 73rd minute, an innocuous shot from him saw the ball wobble past Arindam and a minute later he converted a penalty after Barreto was brought down inside the box by Denzil Franco.

Substitute Henri Autchouet ensured there was life in the match after finding the back of the net in the 81st minute but the Bagan defence did well to thwart the challenges for the remainder of the match.

Odafe Okolie was awarded man of the match for his outstanding performance.

Salgaocar SC 1 (Ryuji Sueoka 79^th)

Beat

Mumbai FC 0

Salgaocar scrape past Mumbai FC

Pune: Ryuji Sueoka cut through the Mumbai FC defence to score the lone and winning goal for Salgaocar SC, in their 14^th round I-League football championship match at the Balewadi Sports Complex on Sunday.

The Goans made a sedate start to the match allowing Mumbai FC to make some inroads, but openings were hard to come by despite concerted efforts by captain Noel Wilson and his fellow midfielders Cavin Lobo and Abhishek Yadav.

This was third match at the Balewadi Complex in two days and it seemed that the encounter was heading towards a draw before the Japanese sensation drew the first blood in the 79^th minute of the match.

A few minutes before Ebi Sukore and Gbemene Friday had given a fright to Salgaocar when Cavin and Keegan Pereira worked the ball from the middle to set up Ebi upfront. He went right into the box with Friday in tow, but the two failed to get the opening as Vinay Singh blocked their view and attempt.

On the counterattack, Sueoka got the ball at half-line and he seemed to looking for a striker up but instead made a sprint cutting through Mumbai FC midfield before the fast approaching four defenders were foxed with one clever tap.

Sueoka turned and raced ahead to collect the ball and fire on the left of the outstretched Ishan Debnath. The goal sent Goans into loud celebrations as the defending champions finally broke into the 20-point barrier.

Salgaocar now have 22 points as does Prayag United SC but are placed No 7 on goal difference. While Mumbai FC have 14 points from 14 matches.

Coaching Workshop concludes in Delhi

2012-01-19T11:44:00.004+05:30

NEW DELHI: A three-day Coaching Workshop cum Clinic conducted by Rob Baan and Scott O’Donell concluded in New Delhi on Sunday (January 15). The Workshop was attended by 16 Coaches from all over the country.

The Workshop which had separate practical and theoretical sessions came in for high praise from all the participants. Former Indian Captain and stopper-back Tarun Dey felt the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is on the right track. “It’s essential to scout youngsters at the right age and the AIFF is doing a laudable job,” he said. “Both Rob and Scott come with a lot of experience. The Workshop was of great help and the value addition has certainly made me a better coach,” he added.

The Practical Sessions were held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium while the theoretical sessions stressed on Talent Scouting and Trends in Modern Football. Baan also highlighted the philosophies of the AIFF Academies.

Godfrey Pereira, who was the last among the coaches to have a practical session, felt the concept of the “AIFF Regional Academies was very much the need of the hour.”

“The Academies need whole-hearted support and there shouldn’t be any interference in the Curriculum from anyone,” he maintained. “I thank the AIFF for taking such an initiative.”

Naushad Moosa said: “The Workshop was an education in itself. Rob and Scott stressed on game related situations. It was a pity it ended in three-days itself. I only wished it continued for some more days,” he quipped.

List of participants: Ananta Ghosh, Tarun Dey, Gautam Ghosh, Sankarlal Chakraborty, Prasanta Chakraborty, Tarun Roy, Godfrey Pereira, Naushad Moosa. Yusuf Ansari, Aqueel Ansari, Francis Ignatius, Sham Saran Shahi, Hillal Parray, Sajid Yousuf Dar, Arshad Hussain, Kundan Chandra, Ravi Babu and John Kenneth Raj.

Pune FC hold East Bengal to goalless draw

2012-01-19T11:37:00.002+05:30

Pune FC 0

d/w

Kingfisher East Bengal 0

Pune: Two strikers, Jeje Lalpekhlua of Pune FC and Ozbey Toglay of Kingfisher East Bengal deserved to be on the scoring list, but as the luck would have it, this Round XIV match ended in a goalless draw at the Balewadi Sports Complex ground here on Saturday.

Both Pune FC and East Bengal created chances galore, but the respective defence worked full time and though some gaps were left, goalkeepers chipped in with their saves.

For Pune FC, Abhra Mondal was the real savior who blocked several chances and took some blows on his body from the East Bengal, the team that loaned him out to Pune FC.

By gaining one point from this tie, Pune FC stayed put on No 5 position, one point ahead of Prayag United SC, which had moved up earlier in the day on goal difference.

East Bengal will move up to No 2 position ahead of Churchill Brothers, who are set to play Mohun Bagan tomorrow.

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was adjudged man-of-the-match.

Dempo beat Chirag United 2-1

2012-01-19T11:35:00.005+05:30

Dempo SC 2 (Clifford Miranda 5^th, Ranti Martins 15^th)

Beat
Chirag United Kerala 1 (C K Vineeth 29^th)

GOA: Dempo Sports Club extended their lead at the top to four points but were unconvincing in their 2-1 win against Chirag United Kerala at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Saturday.

Goals from Clifford Miranda and Ranty Martins in the first session itself were enough for Dempo to look as if they had found their rhythm. But the ghost of the last defeat against Prayag United came back to haunt in the second session as the team missed plenty of chances.

CK Vineeth scored a wonderful goal for the visitors in the 28th minute but despite having a couple of clear chances after the change of ends, Chirag United Kerala could not snatch what would have been a deserving point.

Dempo started confidently and opened the account earlier than they had probably planned. The breakthrough happened in the 5th minute when Peter Carvalho cut past three players worked his way ahead and picked up Clifford on the left. The Dempo midfielder had no problem in getting past the goalkeeper for Dempo’s opening goal.

Ranty Martins made it 2-0 in the 15^th. This time it was Anthony Pereira who did all that was needed to slice open the Chirag United defence

and put the ball on the platter for Ranty to finish from a narrow angle.

Dempo were jostled in the 29th minute when Vineeth found the back of the net, and that too in style. Vineeth’s reverse kick stunned not just Dempo goalkeeper Subhashish Roy Chowdhury but almost everyone else present at the stadium.

The second session, though, was a saga of missed chances. Peter had the best chance to increase Dempo’s lead but goalkeeper K Sharath proved equal to the challenge.

Chirag could have so easily snatched a draw but Vineeth, when provided with a good opportunity, ended placing the ball straight into the waiting hands of goalkeeper K Sharath.

Prayag United play goalless draw against HAL

2012-01-19T11:34:00.002+05:30

Prayag United SC 0

d/w
HAL Bangalore 0

KOLKATA: Prayag United were held to a goalless draw at home against HAL Bangalore at the Yuba Bharati Krinangan on Saturday. The draw would put a serious dent on their chances of finishing near the top of the table.

In a match that lacked any bite only Josimar Da Silva Martins and Yusif Yakubu came close both once each in the first half, but failed to provide any breakthrough in the second half as both teams had to settle for a 0-0 draw.

Prayag United Coach Sanjoy Sen, will be disappointed that his team could not capitalise on an easier opponent at home while HAL will go home the happier of the two sides.

The draw means Prayag United SC have 22 points from 14 matches.

Meanwhile, HAL picked up only their 3rd draw of the current I-League campaign to take them to 3 points from 14 matches and they remain at the rock bottom on the table.

Denson Devdas of Prayag United was adjudged man of the match.

Air India 0

d/w

Shillong Lajong 0

Air India draw with Lajong

PUNE: A rusty Air India let go a good opportunity and ended up with just one point from their Round XIV match against Shillong Lajong FC in the I-League football championship at the Balewadi Sports Complex ground here on Saturday.

Air India failed to create any real chances in first 80 minutes of the match, but a surge came a tad too late even as Lajong defended their castle meticulously leaving the home team crying for some luck.

With one point from this encounter, Air India stayed put at No 7 position with 20 points, while Lajong was placed at No 10 with 17 points.

The man of the match was awarded to John D Menyongar of Lajong.

Pragyan Ojha move from Deccan to Mumbai

2012-01-14T15:54:00.001+05:30

Mumbai : The IPL today announced the sixth transfer of the 2012 Trading Window. Pragyan Ojha, the left-arm spinner, will move from Deccan Chargers to Mumbai Indians. Ojha has been a part of the Deccan Chargers, since the first IPL season in 2008. He won the Purple Cap for being the highest wicket-taker in the 2010 edition of the tournament.

"With a spinner of Pragyan Ojha's competence, we fortify our bowling department that has won us many matches in the past seasons. Pragyan Ojha is a player of great international repute, and we welcome him with much excitement,” Nita Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians, said.

“Pragyan is an outstanding cricketer. He was one of the chief architects of our triumph in 2009. His performances for India, and in the IPL, speak for themselves. We wish him all the best for the future,” E. Venkat Reddy, COO of the Deccan Chargers said.

“Some excellent cricketers have been traded in the previous few days. All eyes will now be on the auction, where more outstanding cricketers will be up for grabs,” Rajeev Shukla, Chairman, IPL, commented.

Twenty probables for India’s tour of the West Indies

2012-01-14T15:52:00.004+05:30

Indore : The National Women’s Selection Committee met at the MPCA, Indore, earlier today, to pick twenty probables for India’s tour of the West Indies, in February-March 2012.

PROBABLES

1. Mithali Raj

2. Amita Sharma

3. Sulakshana Naik

4. Jhulan Goswami

5. Anjum Chopra

6. Veda Krishnamurthy

7. Harmanpreet Kaur

8. Archana Das

9. Diana David

10. Nooshin-Al-Khadeer

11. Sunitha Anand

12. Madhuri Mehta

13. Mandira Mahapatra

14. S. Asha

15. Ekta Bist

16. Gauhar Sultana

17. Rumeli Dhar

18. Poonam Raut

19. Mamta Kanojia

20. Subhlaxmi Sharma

The final squad will be picked later.

Tamil Nadu will host Rajasthan in the final

2012-01-13T19:12:00.005+05:30

Mumbai : Tamil Nadu will host Rajasthan in the final of the 2011-12 edition of the Ranji Trophy. The game will be played at Chennai’s magnificent M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, from 19 January 2012 to 23 January 2012.

This will be Tamil Nadu’s first appearance in a Ranji Trophy final, since 2003-04, when they lost to Mumbai on first-innings at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. Interestingly, they returned the favour at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai’s home ground, in the semi-final of the ongoing edition.

Tamil Nadu have won the Ranji Trophy twice. The first instance was in 1954-55, when they beat Holkar in the final, played at Indore, by 46 runs. The team was known as ‘Madras’ then. Balu Alaganan was the captain. The second triumph was achieved in 1987-88, under the captaincy of S. Vasudevan. Railways were outplayed in the final, played at Chennai, by an innings and 144 runs.

The team has been runners-up eight times.

Rajasthan will look to repeat their success of the previous season. They created history in 2010-11, going all the way from the Plate Group to the Ranji Trophy final, and winning the title for the first time. It was their first Ranji title, after being runners-up eight times. Hrishikesh Kanitkar, who led Rajasthan to their maiden Ranji title, will pit his brains against Laxmipathy Balaji of Tamil Nadu, in the 2011-12 final.

Rajasthan beat Haryana in the semi-final of the ongoing edition, played at Lahli, by 64 runs.

High on Bagan win, Pune FC hopes for double

2012-01-13T19:11:00.001+05:30

Pune: Jeje Lalpekhlua and Lester Fernandes are carrying lots of expectations on their shoulders after their stupendous show against McDowells Mohun Bagan 10 days ago, but after Pune FC had mid-season rest, it would be back to the business, and again another Kolkata giant is posing a challenge at their doorstep.

The 2-1 win against Bagan raised Pune FC to No 5 position, but from now on, it will be as uphill task to keep the momentum going and stay in the top five with the League yet again going into full swing.

Kingfisher East Bengal, who had an early practice on Friday, was upbeat about the Round XIV I-League football match that will go live from Balewadi Sports Complex ground on Saturday. With 26 points from 13 matches and currently occupying No 3 position, the Kolkata giant, however, should not take the home team lightly given their latest exploits.

“It was a very important win for us. Excellent teamwork and good effort from entire team, which finally helped keep aside the pre-match pressure of doing well against a good team,” is how Pune FC coach Derrick Pereira had explained his feelings after the Bagan match.

But to expect the team to perform at the same level after 10-odd day of rest would be too much to ask. It would entirely depend on the situation at the given time and how well Pune FC strikers led by Jeje and Douhou Pierre responds to the mid-fielder’s game plan.

Jeje had started against Bagan from bench, but Pereira put him in early on and that paid the dividends as the striker scored the equalizer to Odafa Okolie’s early strike.

Pune FC lacked punch without Jeje, who has been one of the busiest striker in India doing duty for his club and the National side with aplomb.

His experience of playing against Bayern Munich FC in the Bhaichung Bhutia Farewell Match this Tuesday must have made Jeje more mature, but then he hasn’t had as much rest as other team members had after the sparkling show against Bagan on January 3.

“It’s an open league so far and you’ll never know. Many teams are really fighting for the title. The first leg showed that the difference between teams is minimal and the team that wants it more on the day will win,” were Pereira’s words.

This season, East Bengal thrashed Pune FC 3-1 at Kolkata, but then that was in front of huge partisan crowd something that Balewadi never ever witnessed.

Another positive for Pune FC is that they haven’t lost in last five meetings, winning three and drawing two, while East Bengal won three, drew two and lost one.

The match is slated for 6:30 pm.

Head to Head:

Total Matches - 5

Pune FC Won - 2

East Bengal Won - 2

Drawn- 1

Pune FC Goals - 5

East Bengal Goals - 6

AI hopes to arrest slide against Shillong Lajong

Pune: Air India is hoping that their slide will be arrested with a full-strength squad without injuries or cards will be at disposal when they take on Shillong Lajong FC in the Round XIV match in the I-League football championship at the Balewadi Sports Complex ground here on Saturday.

Much against the expectations, Air India had picked up pace with three straight wins last month including against league leaders Dempo SC helped them to climb as high as No 5 in the standings, but losses against Mohun Bagan and East Bengal before the mid-season break put brakes on their surge upwards.

“We are in good shape now. The rest has done a lot of good for us and with no injuries and entire team to choose from, I would hope that the team will do its best against Shillong Lajong,” said Air India coach Santosh Kashyap.

Currently placed at No 7 with 19 points from 13 matches, Air India is hoping that finally they would be able to break the jinx against Lajong.

“Lajong is a good side and they are improving by every match. We saw them playing against Salgaocar. They played good football and were unlucky to lose that match,” observed Kashyap.

This season, when Air India travelled to Shillong’s home ground, the two teams played a fantastic encounter and but for acrobatic display under the bar by Pawan Kumar, Air India would have lost that tie, which ended goalless.

“That was something of a match. It could have gone any way, but I must say Lajong played very good football and except for Pawan Kumar’s heroics, we would have lost crucial points there,” Kashyap reminded.

“When we drew against Lajong in November, we realized they are just as young side as us. They have some excellent players so we will have to keep our guard intact and go for the kill,” said Kashyap

Lajong, on the other hand has had a see-saw journey through their last five encounters, winning two, losing two and drawing one.

But when they take the ground at Balewadi, their second match here this season, they would know that they had held mighty Pune FC to a goalless draw in the season opener in October.

The match is slated for 3 pm.

Dempo not to take Chirag United lightly

2012-01-13T19:09:00.004+05:30

GOA: Dempo Sports Club are still trying to come to terms with their last loss in the I-League. The 1-2 loss against Prayag United not just pegged Dempo back but also proved that all champion sides, even if they have been all-conquering, would have an off-day at some stage.

“I still cannot explain how the entire team had an off day. I can understand if a couple of players misfired or a particular department were not up to the mark but against Prayag United nothing clicked for us. The entire team played poorly,” said assistant coach Mauricio Afonso.

Champions, though, do not repeat their lacklustre performances and Afonso is confident that his side will measure up to the challenge against Chirag United Kerala in a 14th round I-League clash at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Saturday.

“The mood in training is upbeat. For the past week, I have noticed that the players are raring to go and I am sure that they will put their performance in the last match behind them. We have to start winning and prove we are the best team in the country,” said Armando Colaco’s assistant.

Dempo are leading the title race with 27 points at the end of the first phase but will know that challengers Churchill Brothers (26 points) have a match in hand. A win against Chirag United Keralawill give Dempo a four-point cushion and will then hope Churchill drop points in a tough-clash against Mohun Bagan on Sunday.

“It will not be easy against Chirag United Kerala. They are fast improving and they proved in the last match against Mumbai FCthat they cannot be taken for granted. We will have to work hard for the three points,” said Afonso.

Despite the Prayag United fiasco, Dempo are likely to field the same squad, except, probably, for defender Mahesh Gawli who is nursing an injury and has not trained for the last couple of days. If Mahesh is not fit enough, Rowilson Rodrigues will be his straight-forward replacement.

Chirag United Kerala are in the relegation zone with 11 points but coach Pakeer Ali would have been encouraged by some recent performances. The last match in particular -- a 2-0 win overMumbai FC in Pune -- proved that the Kerala side has the wherewithal to start winning.

The kick of is slated for 3:30 pm on January 14.

Prayag United take on HAL Bangalore

KOLKATA: Prayag United coach Sanjoy Sen has listed the 14^thround I-League match against HAL Bangalore as a must win match, if his teams aspires to finish among the top teams. PrayagUnited are currently on 21 points of 13 matches and are placed sixth in the table while HAL are languishing at the bottom with two points from 13 outings.

When asked about the home encounter versus HAL, Sanjoy Sen, seemed confident yet cautious, “Compared to the other teams HAL seems weaker but no one can say what is going to happen in a game of football. The

I-League results in the past few weeks have been surprising. No one would have thought that Dempo would lose 4 matches and we also did not have a good outing against Pailan Arrows.”

HAL on the other hand reached the city with a full squad ahead of Fridays clash and had a morning practice session.

Sanjoy added that “There are no injury worries as of now and we will more or less start with the same squad which won againstDempo SC in the last round”

Kick-off is slated for 2 pm at the Salt Lake Stadium on January 14, 2012.

Sporting Clube scrape past Pailan Arrows

2012-01-13T19:08:00.003+05:30

Sporting Clube de Goa 3 (Victorino Fernandes 14^th, Rollin Borjes 45^th, Ogba Kalu 85^th)

Beat

Pailan Arrows 2 (CS Sabeeth 28^th, Bijendra Rai 35^th)

Kolkata: Sporting Clube De Goa overcame a fighting Pailan Arrows 3-2, in an entertaining encounter of 14^th round match of the I-League at the Yuba Bharati Krinangan on Friday.

The match started off with Pailan Arrows having to defend more in their half while Sporting Clube pressing for the opening goal.

Victorina Fernandes broke down the Pailan Arrows resistance early on and scored in the 14th minute off a neat finish. It seemed like the strong Pailan Arrows defensive game at home would be broken down.

However, much to the crowds surprise Pailan first equalised through promising centre forward CS Sabeth’s goal in the 28th min and then took a lead off a Bijendra Rai’s strike in the 35th minute.

Just before the lemon break Sporting’s Rollin Borjes scored an equaliser in the 45th minute to take both teams on level at half time.

In the second half both teams pushed for the all important winner and resorted to counter attacking one another instead of an open style of play.

However, unlike the first half there weren’t any scorers and the match looked to be headed for a 2-2 draw. Just when it seemed Pailan would grab another home draw seasoned striker Ogba Kalu scored with just 5 minutes of play left to win the match for the Goan’s.

The win takes Sporting Clube towards safety with 17 points of 14 matches while Pailan have to settle with being just above HAL at the bottom of the table.

ICC back Australian Government move on cheating

2012-01-13T16:40:00.001+05:30

Perth : Haroon Lorgat, the ICC Chief Executive, yesterday expressed the ICC’s support for the proposals being made by the Australian Government to establish a national framework of laws to combat cheating in sport.

In Perth to attend the Third Test Match between Australia and India, Mr Lorgat re-iterated cricket’s zero tolerance attitude to cheating and added: ‘ICC is pleased to add its support to that of Australia’s Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports (COMPPS) in support of the Australian Government’s initiative to tackle cheating in sport.

‘Like all sports in Australia, the ICC and its Members cherish the reputation and integrity of the game. All sport needs honest competition and while in Australia I will be restating our well known stance to the Government.

‘In the past year we faced the sort of challenge which could threaten any sport and I believe we conclusively proved that we will not tolerate any threat to the integrity of the game.

‘I hope our swift and decisive action to charge, provisionally suspend and eventually prosecute and ban those who dared to sully the good name of cricket as well as the subsequent criminal prosecution will serve as a deterrent in future.

‘ICC had also worked effectively with the UK Crown Prosecution Service and the Metropolitan Police to bring those who committed wrong to justice. Sports governing bodies need state assistance to tackle this worldwide menace and in turn we will support any Government that legislates to protect sport against cheating.

‘In supporting this Australian initiative we urge other governments to consider the same to protect all sports. Needless to say we will continue to use everything within our power to ensure that any threat of corrupt activity within the game of cricket is resolutely dealt with.

‘We have always stated that we will explore every possible avenue to ensure that cricket is free from corrupt activity and this initiative of the Australian Government must be commended. ICC will continue to work with the Australian Government and any other Government to protect the integrity of the sport.’

Pailan Arrows aim to break the jinx

2012-01-12T16:59:00.003+05:30

KOLKATA: It’s time for the kick-off again – the kick-off of the second phase of the I-League. And on the first day of the second phase, Pailan Arrows will take centrestage against Sporting Clube de Goa. The two meet at the Salt Lake Stadium on Friday.

Pailan would be vying for their first elusive victory while Sporting Clube seem determined to put their League campaign back on track while Pailan stay one of the two teams not to have registered a win in the Tournament so far.

Nevertheless, Technical Director Sukhwinder Singh stays hopeful things will change. “We have utilised the break to see the younger players. We hope to come back stronger,” he said. “We intend to break the jinx.”

Goalkeeping Coach Tanumoy Basu feels U-19 National Players “would be able to make the difference.”

“We have signed quite a few National U-19 players. Creative midfielder Prabir Das can make an impact for sure as does striker Holicharan Narzary and midfielder Shenaj Singh,” Basu informed.

“However, Sehnaj is having a slight niggle and may not start against Sporting,” he informed. “Pranoy Halder will be fit soon. We may not be able to play all against Sporting but would surely try out the other players too – Bikramjit Singh, Arijeet Singh, Sonu Beniwal, Sumit Passi amongst others.”

Striker CS Sabeeth who was part of the National squad for India’s Exhibition Match against Bayern Munich feels, “it’s not long before Pailan start winning.”

“We have been distinctly unlucky not to win some matches. We need to convert whatever comes our way and I intend to hit the target more often,” he maintained.

Singh, however, refused to be drawn into commenting on Sporting Clube. “They are a quality side who know to hit hard. They are a fighting lot and we need to stay alert,” he said.

Sporting Clube were off to a wonderful start of the first leg and had remained unbeaten till the sixth round. But they couldn’t sustain the momentum. The first-round match between the two teams in Goa had ended in a goalless draw.

Sporting Clube stay at the 11th position with 14 points from 13 matches while Pailan Arrows are on 7 points from 12 matches. Pailan’s 13th round match against Churchill Brothers will be played later.

Indian team selection

2012-01-12T16:58:00.000+05:30

Mumbai : The All-India Women’s Selection Committee will meet at 12:00 pm on Saturday, 14 January 2012, at the Holkar Stadium, MPCA, Indore, to pick twenty probables for India’s tour of the West Indies in February-March 2012. The tour will comprise three ODIs and five T20 Internationals.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee will meet at 4:00 pm on Sunday, 15 January 2012, at the Sheraton Park Hotel and Towers, Chennai, to pick the Indian team for the two T20 Internationals and tri-series, on the tour of Australia.

Lester wants to break into the National Squad

2012-01-12T16:55:00.002+05:30

New Delhi : He belongs to the new breed of Indian footballers – players who love and dare to dream big. And they love challenges.

For Pune FC midfielder Lester Fernandes, life is more than just about hoodwinking his rival and speeding down the flank and send perfect crosses. Life for him is more about “watching Roger Federer glide on the court or about Zinedine Zidane’s ball control.”

“There’s nothing like watching Roger Federer; so sublime, so classy,” utters Lester.

Lester who grew up watching Carlton Chapman, Noel Wilson among others in

Bangalore’s Austin Town shifted to the Tata Football Academy and like any other Indian teenager dreamt about playing abroad.

“Youngsters who graduate into the mainstream invariably warm the bench in a big club for the first two-three seasons or even more. By the time they become a regular member of a club, their motivation isn’t the same anymore. To establish themselves in India, another couple of seasons are lost. By then, it’s too late,” he says in one breath.

Lester who plays as a left-half for Pune FC started off as a Central Midfielder. “I can play in any position,” he informs. “It depends on the Coach’s plans,” Lester, who had earlier had stints with Dempo and Salgaocar, informs. “The sport’s become much tougher and much faster in the last five-six years. The present generation stay a much fitter lot,” he maintains.

This is Lester’s second season with Pune FC. “Our management stresses a lot on Community Development. Our fan base has already crossed 30000,” he goes on. “It’s a privilege to share the pitch with someone as Subrata Paul. He has such a calming influence. He adds to the confidence of the team.

“Granted a wish, I’d ask for a berth in the National Team. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. I have faith in the Almighty and sincerely believe my prayers would be answered for sure,” he says, even before you had asked him about it. Call it confidence, call it guts, you ought to admire him.

“But there are other challenges on which I need to stay focussed. We need to continue our momentum in the second phase of the I-League. We can’t afford any more slip-ups.”

Kingfisher East Bengal get permission to replace Gow

2012-01-12T16:54:00.001+05:30

New Delhi : The following decisions were taken by the I-League Core Committee which met at the Football House in the Capital. Besides AIFF Vice-Presidents Mr. Subrata Dutta and Mr. Ankur Datta, the meeting was also attended by various club representatives. Mr. Sunando Dhar, CEO, I-League was also present. The meeting was Chaired by Mr. Subrata Dutta.

· It was unanimously decided that there would be some changes to the I-League Fixtures for the forthcoming AFC Challenge Cup.

· The Committee referred the two complaints (Mr. Alemao Churchill’s verbal assault on Goa Football Association on referees and Match Commissioner and Kingfisher’s East Bengal player’s altercation with Goa Stadium Authority personnel) to the disciplinary committee.

· The Committee reached a consensus that monetary fine would be imposed on cases where LAW-4 of Laws of the games have been breached.

· The Committee granted Kingfisher East Bengal the permission to replace Alan Gow with another foreign player.

· The Committee also decided to keep a gap of 5 extra days between the preliminary rounds and final round of I-League 2^nd-division to accommodate the completion of Goa Professional League.

IPL announced the fifth transfer of the 2012 Trading window

2012-01-11T11:58:00.001+05:30

Mumbai : The IPL today announced the fifth transfer of the 2012 Trading window. Andrew McDonald, the fast-medium bowling allrounder from Australia, will move from Delhi Daredevils to Royal Challengers Bangalore, for the 2012 season of the tournament. The all-rounder is leading the Melbourne Renegades in the ongoing Big Bash League in Australia.

“All-rounders are a priceless asset in the T20 format. We are pleased to acquire Andrew. He has excelled with bat and ball for the various sides that he has represented, in different formats. We have no doubt that he will make a big difference to our prospects in the upcoming IPL,” Sidhartha Mallya, Director, Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd, commented.

TA Sekar, Head (Cricket), GMR Sports, the franchise that owns Delhi Daredevils, wished the 30-year-old McDonald who played six matches for Delhi Daredevils, scoring 76 runs and taking five wickets, the very best. "He would fit in well with the Royal Challengers Bangalore,” he said.

“The process of player-transfers during the Trading Window is gaining in momentum, and we are likely to see more action in the days leading up to 20 January 2012, when the first part of the trading window will close,” Rajeev Shukla, Chairman, IPL, said.

McDonald will move to Bangalore where he registered his most memorable performance in a T20 match on Indian soil where he claimed four Royal Challengers Bangalore wickets for 21 runs in a Champions League match for Victoria on October 15^th, 2009.

The following trades have been confirmed earlier:

Dinesh Karthik from KXIP to MI
R Satish from MI to KXIP
Harmeet Singh from DC to KXIP.
Kevin Pietersen from DC to DD

The long walk off the field but not away from it

2012-01-11T11:56:00.003+05:30

NEW DELHI: The match ended, the walk started – the long walk back to the dressing room. The Man paused and turned to the crowd – hands went up in appreciation, all in appreciation for the support over the years. In the stands, hands went together too – clapping in appreciation – a gesture for all the achievements, for all the entertainment.

We found it convenient to have a sneak peek into his heart – and there it was running high -- more than the emotions, the adrenalin. No tears, no regrets.

The steps to the Dressing Room at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium didn’t have ‘Farewell’ written on them. Rather, they kicked-off the kick-off of a new phase. From United Sikkim Football Club to his Academy to all his future endeavours -- Bhaichung Bhutia’s footballing life has just begun.

On the ground, a crowd of around 50000 treated him to his Farewell. During the warming up, every time Bhaichung Bhutia was focused on the giant screen, the crowd went up. Arjen Robben and Philipp Lahm and Bastian Schweinsteiger paused and looked up as to what was happening. They gauged the sentiment and continued.

Bayern Munich’s gesture was touching. Captain Philipp Lahm presented a No. 15 Bayern Munich jersey to Bhaichung. It had ‘Bhaichung’ written all over it. From the stands, AIFF Player-of-the-Year Sunil Chhetri stretched all his vocal chords but it got lost in the roar. The Bayern players clapped.

At the interval, Bhaichung was presented an Audi Q5.

His first touch of the ball in the 2^nd minute had Rafinha closing him down. Realising Bayern were looking threatening with their early possession, Bhaichung even preferred to fall down to his own half to help. You just ought to laud his commitment. He never shied away from sliding tackles and pressed like a debutant.

The colourful crowd did witness four goals, though all from Bayern Munich side. Thomas Muller scored a brace (29^thand 37^th minute) while Mario Gomez (14^thminute) and Bastian Schweinsteiger (42^nd minute) scored one apiece.

The journey ended in the 84^th minute. Bhaichung was substituted! His contribution though will, never be.

The entire team stood up, players came rushing from positions to embrace and wish him; even Bayern footballers -- all Megastars of World Football, too showed the gesture. The standing ovation was inevitable – in midst of all, none noticed India U-23 striker CS Sabeeth who rushed to the ground to substitute him.

It was befitting enough as it was the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium where Bhaichung had first burst onto the scene as a 12-year old kid in the nineties. The Stadium wasn’t this majestic then; the Man was just a kid.

U-23 players Lalrindika Ralte, Jewel Raja, Jeje Lalpeklua, all of whom came in the first half did stretch Bayern a bit in the second half. But it wasn’t a match where the result mattered.

It was a Farewell Match for someone to begin another walk off the field, but not away from it.

Chhetri awarded the AIFF Player-of-the-Year Award

2012-01-11T11:55:00.001+05:30

NEW DELHI: Even as Bhaichung Bhutia, the Indian National Team and the Bayern Munich side hogged the limelight at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, there was a significant presentation which happened during the course of the match.

National Team striker Sunil Chhetri was awarded the AIFF Player-of-the-Year 2001 award during the interval. The Award was handed over to Chhetri by the President of the All India Football Federation, Mr. Praful Patel. Mr. Patel handed Chhetri a silver plaque and a Cheque of Rs. 2 lakh.

In his message Mr. Patel congratulated Chhetri and wished him more success in coming years. “Sunil Chhetri is a deserving recipient of the Award. I hope this will spur him on to bring more laurels for the National Team in the near future. I wish him success in coming years,” Mr. Patel said.

For the first time the Award was decided in a democratic manner where all the coaches of the I-League playing teams voted unanimously on the four short-listed footballers.

An elated Chhetri thanked all his team-mates and coaches and the AIFF without whose support “the Award wouldn’t have been possible at all.”

“This is an inspiration to do better. 2011 has been good for me – I had earlier received the Arjuna Award and now the AIFF Player-of-the-Year Award. It feels nice when your achievements are recognised,” he maintained.

Chhetri who scored 24 goals (13 International goals and 11 goals for Clubs) in 2011 had earlier received the Award in 2007.

My heart stays on the field: Sunil Chhetri

2012-01-11T11:54:00.001+05:30

NEW DELHI: Only a month back during the SAFF Championship, Sunil Chetri stayed the cynosure of all eyes at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. A month later, the AIFF Player-of-the-Year is yet to recover from his ankle injury sustained during India’s 4-0 triumph against Afghanistan in the final. Already ruled out of India’s exhibition match against Bayern Munich which is also Bhaichung Bhutia’s Farewell Match, Chhetri spoke towww.the-aiff.com about Bhaichung’s influence on his career, his telepathy with Bhaichung and much more. Excerpts.

How much of a disappointment is it for you not to be a part of Bhaichung Bhutia’s farewell match?

It’s disappointing. He has always been my idol and the last time we played together in the Asian Cup against South Korea, I always felt we would be playing together again for the National Team. But the situation is different now. For any Indian player it’s a huge honour to be a part of the match. Unfortunately my injury forces me to sit out. My heart will stay on the field but I would be cheering from the stands.

What have you learnt from Bhaichung over the years?

It’s an endless list. But apart from the technical aspects, I have also learnt a lot off the field. The manner he has carried himself has been a lesson for me. The way he looks at and thinks about the game has accelerated my maturity as a player. I owe a lot to him. Apart from Bhaichung, Rennedy Singh has also gone out of the way to help me evolve as a footballer.

What has been your best moment with Bhaichung so far?

There have been loads of moments, the memories of which I will carry forever. In the six and a half years that I have played with him at the National Team, we have won the AFC Challenge Cup and two Nehru Cups. His presence has been an accelerating agent for the entire squad.

What was it about the telepathy between Bhaichung and you? How did it develop?

It was very easy playing with him as he always makes one comfortable. It’s his nature to encourage everybody and I was no exception. And we gelled well off the field too. Our mentalities matched, we loved to hang out together, dine together. For any advice, I just pick up my mobile and dial him. The telepathy just grew up.

That’s what makes him great. This is Jeje’s (Lalpeklua) first match with Bhaichung but never for a moment has Bhaichung thrown his weight around.

Explain more of Bhaichung.

I can tell you he is a big prankster. We all stayed on our toes as to when he would target us. I wish I could explain his pranks; and he always had the variety. Even Jeje hasn’t been spared.

What’s your message to Bhaichung Bhutia.

You are an icon. You stay my idol, my role model. It was a privilege playing alongside you. Thank You for all what you have done for me.

The Anthem will stay with him forever

2012-01-11T11:53:00.003+05:30

NEW DELHI: Late 8pm on Sunday evening with the fog having enveloped the distant Akshardham Mandir, street lights dimmed, Bhaichung Bhutia, for the first time in the day found time out to take a deep breath and sit on his sofa. The practice session had long ended, television interviews finished by then, photo-shoots completed and even fans had been obliged.

Bhaichung looked around, picked up a bottle and gulped the water at one go. The walls watched. You found it the most convenient moment to have a sneak peek into his heart. And there, it was running high; more than the adrenalin, the emotions. No tears; no ecstasy; rather a grievance – the grievance of his body letting him down, forcing him to his Farewell.

‘Farewell?’ Does it mean his reflexes inside the box aren’t deadly anymore? Does it mean he can’t wrong foot defenders with his sudden burst of speed? Does it mean he isn’t good anymore? Till yesterday night, he smelt the goal in his sleep. So what is this Farewell Match all about?

The specially designed jersey for his Farewell Match by Team Kit sponsors Nike lay next. The inscription, ‘Bhaichung – the start of a legacy,’ caught his eye. Bhaichung got up, folded his jersey and as he has always done, hung it in the wardrobe.

Monday morning at the Ambedkar Stadium was, however, different. There have been so many Bhaichung Bhutia jams outside this Stadium. Two Nehru Cup triumphs, the AFC Challenge Cup triumph, so many significant victories in club football had brought alive the Capital, often cursed of not having a football culture.

On the turf, the balls waited for Bhaichung to address them to the net. More than the emotions, the adrenalin ran high. He flung himself for tackles, dived for headers, did the chasing and pressed his teammates to get the ball back. In between, so many taps, headers, flicks, kicks and volleys bulged the net; some even prompted Bhaichung to raise his hand as a gesture of celebration. Who says, this is his Farewell Match?

The willing mind dragged his unwilling body. The temptation always stays for sportspersons to hide their injuries to prolong their career. Bhaichung, in any case has been different. That has been his football, his charisma; that has stayed his gesture. Commitment has always stayed his trademark.

The session ended, the adrenalin subsided. Emotions resurfaced. The walk back from the Tunnel to the Dressing Room to the Team Bus to the Team Hotel passed off fast. Time flies.

Bayern Munich’s Trophy Cabinet back in Munich boasts of 22 Bundesliga and 4 Champions League Titles. But Philipp Lahm, Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, Bastian Schweinsteiger have known by now, India’s No. 15 is a special player -- it’s Bhaichung Bhutia’s Farewell Match.

Back in his Hotel Room, he opened the cupboard and looked at the special jersey and then the inscription. ‘Bhaichung – the start of a legacy,’ lay written over it. There’s always a start, always a new beginning. He touched the logo – the emblem which has stayed close to his chest. He will clutch onto it during the National Anthem for one more time.

Farewell Match? OK. But the Anthem will stay with him – forever.

The kick-off is slated for 6pm at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday, January 10, 2012.

IPL announced the third transfer of the 2012 Trading window

2012-01-11T11:52:00.001+05:30

Mumbai : The IPL today announced the third transfer of the 2012 Trading window. Kevin Pietersen, belligerent batsman and former England captain, will move from Deccan Chargers to Delhi Daredevils for the 2012 season of the tournament.
GMR Sports' Head (Cricket) TA Sekar said Pietersen's addition would strengthen the Delhi Daredevils squad this season. "We are pleased to add Kevin to our line-up. He brings rich experience and an explosive quality to our batting and can be a more than handy off-spinner as well. We are sure that Kevin will help us to be very competitive this season and the Delhi Daredevils fans will enjoy this addition."
Pietersen, 31, said he was excited at the prospect of joining a team that includes the likes of skipper Virender Sehwag and David Warner. "I am looking forward to a wonderful time with the Delhi Daredevils. It will be a great experience to be playing in the same squad as Sehwag," he said.
Pietersen was acquired by the Deccan Chargers in the 2011 IPL auction. However, he could not participate in the tournament due to a surgery. He had earlier been a part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru outfit, in the 2009 and 2010 editions of the annual tournament, and had led RCB in six games in 2009.
“Kevin Pietersen is a quality player, and there is no doubt that he will be one of the players to watch out for, in the coming edition of the IPL. We wish him all the best,” Deccan Chargers CEO Venkat Reddy said.
“The Delhi Daredevils squad will be bolstered by the entry of Kevin Pietersen. It is great to see the Franchises in the process of strategising for the upcoming tournament. We are in for a cracker of a competition in April-May,” Rajeev Shukla, Chairman, IPL, said.

This is a very emotional moment for me: Bhaichung

2012-01-11T11:50:00.003+05:30

NEW DELHI: As India take on Bayern Munich which boasts of the likes of Philipp Lahm, Franck Ribery, Mario Gomez, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Arjen Robben amongst others, all eyes stay focused on Bhaichung Bhutia. Ahead of his Farewell Match, Bhaichung spoke at length to on the significance of the forthcoming match, his illustrious career and much more.Excerpts:

What does this match mean to you?

It’s a worldwide trend for most players to retire after a competitive tournament. Unfortunately, I didn’t get that opportunity. But having a Farewell Match organised -- that too against Bayern Munich is a huge honour for me.

This will be the last match you would be putting on the National Jersey. What’s the feeling?

Frankly speaking I don’t know how to express myself. It’s a very emotional moment for me. I enjoyed my 16 years of career with the National Team. Obviously it feels good to be back for one last time.

Sum up your long and illustrious career.

It’s being a great learning process with lots of ups and downs. I have enjoyed every moment and have no regrets. The good moments added to the confidence while the downs in life taught me lessons to go that extra pace. I have always stayed committed to the National Team and will carry the memories.

Most of the players have grown up idolising you. What do have to say to them?

It’s a great opportunity for them not only to play with me but against Superstars of World Football. I think Bayern Munich will inspire them and help them learn as much as possible.

Do you think matches like these would benefit Indian Football?

Such matches would definitely generate lot of interest among the younger generation. It gives an opportunity for all to watch Great Players, that too at your own courtyard. But it’s high time the clubs became professional and started their own Youth Development Programme.

What’s your message for your fans?

I need to thank all for their support. They have always stood by me and have been patient. The affection which I received over the years has been a cherished one. A big Thank You to all once again.

Indian players lit up Delhi chill

2012-01-11T11:49:00.001+05:30

NEW DELHI: There was a bit of gloom in the morning weather. The overnight rain had left its mark and the fog added to the chill. At the Heritage School Campus in Gurgaon, the Barcelona Camp organised by Conscient Football, it was different

Indian National Team players who landed in the Capital for the Audi Football Summit – the Exhibition Match against Bayern Munich, lit up the proceedings. They had an interactive session with the 180 odd kids and then played with them. The football seemed to be fun yet an unique opportunity for the kids to look upto and learn from their idols from close.

The energy of the five-man army -- Climax Lawrence, Gourmangi Singh, Clifford Miranda, Jeje Lalpekhlua was infectious. Even as the queue for autographs seemed to have no end, they smilingly obliged all.

The duo of Jeje and Sabeeth, both of whom have been together for the U-23 Olympic Qualifiers, just couldn’t wait to get on the field against the Bayern Munich side.

“This is a life-time opportunity for us,” Jeje said. “International Scheduling in Football doesn’t permit one to get on the same field against such renowned clubs. But here we are playing against Bayern Munich,” Jeje who turned 20 on Saturday, expressed.

“All of them are International Stars. The entire footballing fraternity will be keeping a close eye on the match,” he added.

“We speak of Exposure Tours every alternate minute. Can any Tour get bigger than this?” Sabeeth, putting on his boots, quipped. “I’m lucky to be in the squad for this match. It’s for us to learn, the more the better for us,” Sabeeth joined in.

The duo hasn’t yet played together with Bhaichung Bhutia and that it makes all the more significant for them. “Bhaichung has been the most deadly Indian striker I have seen,” Sabeeth quipped. “His commitment and his reflexes are a lesson for any young player.”

Jeje added: “It’s fortunate that I get to play with Bhaichung. It’s unfortunate that I won’t ever get a chance to play with him again. He is such a great player.”

“Bhaichung was such an aggressive striker. He always had the ability to put the rival defence under pressure,” Sabeeth maintained.

Gourmangi Singh, a former AIFF Player-of-the-Year feels it’s an honour for him to be playing in Bhaichung’s farewell match. “I have always looked upto him. To be a part of his Farewell Match is indeed an honour for me,” he opined.

The Indian team will be having their first practice session at the Ambedkar Stadium on Sunday.

The list of 23 players is as follows:

GOALKEEPERS: Karanjit Singh (Salgaocar SC), Subhasish Roychowdhury (Dempo SC), Felix (Churchill Brothers).

DEFENDERS: Jaspal Singh (Salgaocar), Sameer Naik (Dempo SC), Gouramangi Singh (Churchill Brothers), Govin Singh (United Sikkim Football Club), Nirmal Chhetri (Kingfisher East Bengal), Syed Rahim Nabi (McDowell Mohun Bagan), Adil Khan (Sporting Clube de Goa), Gurjinder Singh (Pune FC).

MIDFIELDERS: Reisangmi Vashum (Kingfisher East Bengal), Jewel Raja Shaikh (McDowell Mohun Bagan), Climax Lawrence (Dempo SC), Rakesh Masih (McDowell Mohun Bagan), Baldeep Singh (Pune FC), Clifford Miranda (Dempo SC), Lalrindika Ralte (Churchill Brothers), Rocus Lamare (Salgaocar).

FORWARDS: Jeje Lalpeklua (Pune FC), Bhaichung Bhutia, Sushil Singh (United Sikkim Football Club), CS Sabeeth (Pailan Arrows).

Domestic tournaments

2012-01-07T12:29:00.000+05:30

C.K. NAYUDU TROPHY, 2011-12

Punjab beat Delhi in the final of the under-22 C.K. Nayudu Trophy, played at Delhi.

Brief scores:

PCA: first innings - 424 all out in 125.5 overs

DDCA: first innings - 319 all out in 104.3 overs
PCA: second innings- 151-4 in 34 overs

Match drawn. Punjab won on first-innings lead.

WOMEN’S INTER-STATE T20 COMPETITION (SENIOR)

Railways beat Delhi in the final of the tournament, played at Cuttack.

Brief scores:

Delhi W Sr : 104 All Out in 20 overs

RSPB W Sr : 105-3 in 18.4 overs

Railways won by seven wickets.

RANJI TROPHY, 2011-12

Mumbai and Haryana will host Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan respectively in the semi-finalists in the 2011-12 edition of the Ranji Trophy.

All four teams have impressive records in the tournament.

Mumbai have won the title a staggering 39 times, including fifteen in a row, from 1958-59 to 1972-73. They won the title under the captaincy of Wasim Jaffer, the incumbent, in 2008-09 and 2009-10, and lost to eventual winners Rajasthan in the 2010-11 quarter-finals.

Tamil Nadu, formerly known as Madras, enjoy the distinction of winning the inaugural Ranji Trophy match, way back in 1934-35, when they beat Mysore (as Karnataka was previously known), at their home ground in Chepauk, in a day.

They won the title twice, in 1954-55 and 1987-88, and have been runners-up on eight occasions.

Haryana won the Ranji Trophy for the first time in 1990-91, beating Mumbai in Mumbai by two runs, in what is regarded by many as the best Ranji final ever. Haryana batted first and scored 522. Mumbai replied with 410, and Haryana increased their overall lead to 354 in the second innings. Mumbai went for the target on the final afternoon, and were dismissed for 352.

Haryana’s first foray into a Ranji final was in 1985-86, when they finished runners-up against Delhi.

Rajasthan’s maiden Ranji title in 2010-11 would have gladdened the hearts of its supporters, administrators and veterans, who had battled hard in the decades gone by. From 1960-61 to 1973-74, Rajasthan reached the final as many as eight times, only to finish on the losing end. The 2010-11 season saw the team complete a run that was as dramatic as it was extraordinary. Rajasthan began the season in the Plate Group, and was one of the two Plate sides to qualify for the Elite Group Knockout stage. The team went on to beat Mumbai, Tamil Nadu and Baroda, in the quarter-final, semi-final and final respectively.

First transfer of the IPL 2012 Trading Window

2012-01-07T12:28:00.000+05:30

Mumbai : The IPL today announced the first transfer of the 2012 Trading window. Dinesh Karthik, wicketkeeper-batsman, will join the Mumbai Indians squad for the 2012 season of the tournament. Karthik was acquired by the Kings XI Punjab in the 2011 IPL auction, and he played in all 14 of Kings XI’s matches last season. In the first three seasons of the IPL, he played 42 matches for the Delhi Daredevils.

Nita Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians franchise, commented, “We are very pleased to add a player of Dinesh Karthik’s calibre and specific skills to the Mumbai Indians squad as this addition will further strengthen our side.”

The owners of Kings XI Punjab said, “Dinesh played an important role for Kings XI Punjab last season, but with our captain Adam Gilchrist donning the wicketkeeping gloves, we were unable to harness Dinesh’s complete potential. Everybody at Kings XI Punjab wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.”

“It looks like the 2012 Trading Window will be an active one as the franchises look to revise and strengthen their squads in advance of the Player Auction on 4 February 2012,” Rajeev Shukla, Chairman, IPL, said.

I-League stays wide open after first-phase

2012-01-07T12:26:00.003+05:30

New Delhi: After 13 rounds of the I-League 2011/12, the Championship stays wide open. The topsy-turvy manner at the top hints towards no clear favourite.

Only one point separates the top three clubs in the current standings with Dempo SC leading the pack with 27 points. Both Churchill Brothers and Kingfisher East Bengal have 26 points but Churchill stay ahead on a head-to-head ratio. Not to forget, Churchill have played a match less.

Far away from being predictable the first-leg proves that smaller teams are not far behind in terms of competence and quality of play. Big-budgets don’t always win you matches.

Prayag United have been a revelation and Pune FC’s upsurge towards the last stages of the first-leg where they accounted for heavyweight counterparts of the likes of Dempo and Mohun Bagan provides that glimmer of hope that we can have a new club winning the League.

Pune Coach Derrick Pereira credited his boys for his team’s meteoric rise. “We were not off to a dream start but we now stay in contention. I think the understanding among the players and the presence of Jeje Lalpekhlua and Mondjou Keita’s upfront have turned our fortunes,” he told www.the-aiff.com.

Refusing to name any specific player, he added: “Football is a team game and pin pointing any single player would not be right thing to do.”

“We want to take one match at a time and I expect my players to stay focussed in the second phase.”

Prayag United stays the other team to have made an impact with a shoe-string budget. Coach Sanjoy Sen maintained the aim of the team is “To finish in the top 5,” only to add: “We are not away from our aim.”

Their victory against Dempo has thrown open the League. “We were determined to beat Dempo on their home soil and my players responded to the call.”

Big spenders McDowell Mohun Bagan do remain in the fray but the injuries to inspirational Captain Jose Barreto has hit them hard. They stay a bit dependent on maverick striker Odafa Okolie and the defensive woes continue. Don’t rule them out as you can never doubt the quality in their side – the same manner in which you can’t ever rule out defending champions Salgaocar.

The match-schedule of the DLF Indian Premier League 2012

2012-01-07T12:14:00.001+05:30

The match-schedule of the DLF Indian Premier League 2012 has been finalized.

The tournament will feature nine teams, and a total of seventy-six matches will be played from Wednesday, 4^th April 2012, to Sunday, 27^th May 2012, at an expected twelve venues. The new Stadium in Pune, subject to final completion, will make its debut as an IPL venue, by staging all eight ‘home’ games of the Pune Warriors India. Dharamsala, Cuttack and Vizag will host two games each.
The league will commence with Chennai Super Kings, the defending champions, taking on the Mumbai Indians, the Champions League T20 winners, at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The league stage, which comprises seventy two matches, with each team playing the other eight in a home-and-away format, will go on till Sunday, 20^th May 2012.
The venue of the two finalist teams from 2011 edition will host the Play offs. Bengaluru will host Qualifier 1 (1 vs 2) and the Eliminator (3 vs 4) on 22^nd May and 23^rd May respectively. Qualifier 2 and the Final will be played in Chennai, on 25^th May and 27^th May respectively.

Ranji Trophy semi-finals

2012-01-07T12:12:00.005+05:30

Mumbai : The line-ups for the Ranji Trophy semi-finals to be played from 10^th January 2012 to 13^th January 2012, are as follows:

1. MUMBAI v/s TAMIL NADU AT MUMBAI

2. HARYANA v/s RAJASTHAN AT LAHLI

Peter Hartley of England will officiate in the semi-final at Mumbai, as part of the Umpire Exchange Programme between the BCCI and the ECB.

Composed Pune FC beat Mohun Bagan 2-1

2012-01-04T12:09:00.004+05:30

Pune FC 2 (Jeje Lalpeklua – 36^th; Lester Fernandes – 56^th)

beat

McDowell Mohun Bagan 1 (Odafa Okolie – 22^nd)

PUNE: Pune FC came back from behind to beat McDowell Mohun Bagan 2-1 in a crucial I-League match at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune. The victory takes Pune FC to 22 points from 13 matches while Bagan stay two points ahead from same number of matches.

The match was a perfect example of eleven players playing as an unit versus a team depending on a single individual. Bagan paid the price for their over-dependence on Odafa Okolie and a weak defence. All balls were addressed to Odafa thus making Pune FC’s job easier.

To make matters worse for Bagan, NP Pradeep, playing as the right back and stopper Anwar Ali found it hard to gauge and intercept the wave of Pune attacks. The yawning gaps in the Bagan defence made all wonder as to how a star-studded and high-spending team’s players could afford to be so slow and lackluster.

But it was Bagan who began on an aggressive note. Odafa put Bagan in the lead in the 22^nd minute. Receiving a pass just outside the Pune FC box, the goal-machine thundered a grounder which beat the diving rival goalkeeper Abhra Mondal. The minimal space in which Odafa executed it, spoke of his class.

But Pune FC regrouped fast. They slowly took possession of the midfield and spotted out a slow NP Pradeep and Anwar Ali as the weak links in the Bagan defence. And it paid dividends when substitute striker Jeje Lalpekhlua equalised for Pune with his first touch of the ball in the 36^th minute. Pune FC left-half, the livewire Lester Fernandes made a mockery of Pradeep on the left flank and Jeje sneaked in between an out of position Anwar Ali and Syed Rahim Nabi to head it in.

Changing over, Lester Fernandes headed in the match-winner in the 56^thminute. Mandjou Keita broke down the right flank and centered for an unmarked Lester to head it in. The defence just watched.

Minutes later, Bagan were lucky when Karma Tsewang failed to put it in with only goalkeeper Sangram Mukherjee to beat. Again, the defence stayed non-existent.

Bagan’s sole chance in the second half was when Lima’s long-ranger hit the post. Pune FC’s defence’s job was made easier as all balls were addressed to Odafa. It was no doubt the perfect example of eleven players playing as an unit against a team depending on an individual.

Prayag United stun Dempo SC 2-1

2012-01-04T12:08:00.000+05:30

Prayag United 2 (Joshimar da Silva Martins 5^th, Gouranga Biswas 78^th)

Beat

Dempo SC 1 (Ranti Martins 60^th)

Goa: Prayag United scored a stunning 2-1 victory over Dempo Sports Club in a 13^th round I-League clash at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Tuesday.

Dempo continue to lead the table with 26 points but the former champions were left to win an opportunity to increase the lead at the top of the table. Dempo were far from their best and could not dictate terms while their rivals played to a plan and caught the hosts on the counter.

Brazilian striker Joshimar da Silva Martins had put Prayag United ahead in the fifth minute itself but Dempo came back in the second session with a penalty from Ranty Martins in the 60^thminute. Gouranga Biswas scored the match winner in the 78^thminute.

Prayag United stunned Dempo early in the game when Brazilian striker Joshimar made the best of a defensive misunderstanding between Cressan Antao and goalkeeper Subhashish Roy Chowdhury, who had to be substituted after sustaining a clash during the melee.

Dempo took time to settle down but could not enforce themselves. There were a couple of chances though but Anthony Pereira shot wide from close range and Ranty also went close.

Dempo got the equaliser at the hour mark when Ranty won a penalty after he was brought down by Prayag goalkeeper Abhijit Mondal. Ranty himself scored.

Much against the run of play, Prayag United went ahead for the second time in the 78^th minute. Shankar Oaron crossed a ball into the heart of the Dempo goalmouth, where Kayne Vincent mistimed his header but Gouranga was on hand to turn the ball home with a low header over

Dempo goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattymani.

Dempo tried to claw their way back into the match but Climax Lawrence’s volley was off target and Peter Carvalho failed to direct the ball into the goal when the rival goalkeeper had left his ground.

Resurgent Salgaocar to face Shillong Lajong

2012-01-04T12:06:00.002+05:30

Goa: Salgaocar Sports Club coach Karim Bencherifa needs additional proof that his side is now on the road to recovery in the I-League. Salgaocar have picked up seven points from their last three games but a win against Shillong Lajong FC at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Wednesday would be definite proof that the defending champions are back in form.

“We have had some good results but we lacked consistency. We need to keep on winning to achieve some level of consistency,” said Bencherifa.

Bencherifa believes Salgaocar’s 4-0 demolition of East Bengal has done the team’s confidence a world of good and they are now ready to show the same level of determination.

“The win against East Bengal was huge. Now we need to grab wins consistently, improve our points tally and keep moving ahead. A draw will be an unsatisfactory result against Lajong,” he added.

“Lajong, though I must add, is a tricky side. They are very unpredictably and can defeat any team on their day,” the Coach said.

The coach would do well to remember how Lajong stretched them to the limit in the semifinals of the Federation Cup. Salgaocar eventually won the semifinal but Bencherifa is aware that there will not be any easy pickings.

Shillong Lajong has faced heavy defeats in all of their three matches played at Fatorda. Lajong have conceded 14 goals in the three matches played here, and Coach Pradhyum Reddy would certainly be hoping for an improved performance.

Both Salgaocar and Shillong Lajong have 16 points in their kitty from 12 matches but the defending champions are placed ahead on goal difference.

HAL Bangalore to face Sporting Clube

2012-01-04T12:05:00.002+05:30

Bangalore: HAL Bangalore, who are languishing at the bottom of the table with just one point from 12 matches will host Sporting Clube de Goa in the 13^th round of the I League Championship at the Bangalore Football Stadium on Wednesday.

For the host script has been always perfect till the first half - they put up a brilliant show, and dominate proceedings. Come second half, they concede an early goal, and everything goes haywire. From the close quarters, it is nothing but a known chronic illness!

While Sporting Clube de Goa has had a wonderful start of the tournament and remained unbeaten till sixth round, but in the last six rounds their seems to be a sudden slump in their performance, garnering just one point from six outing, including the 12th round 5-goal humiliation by the hands of Dempo SC.

HAL Bangalore’s manager Muralidharan seems to be aware of his opponents descend. In his cautious approach, he too is looking for a win, “We’ve to get it straight this time, we will be playing in 4-4-2 combination,” he quipped.

HAL defence will be bolstered by Rohit Chand, who would make a comeback. He will be filling the Asian player quota that was left vacant till now. However, defender Femi Joseph Adeola, who is yet to recover from his injury and looks to be doubtful starter for tomorrow’s campaign.

On the other hand Sporting Clube would also like to turn the table on, and why not as they have an ideal opponent in HAL, who could only manage a draw in 12 rounds of the Championship, played so far.

Sporting are at 11^th position with 13 points from 12 matches, while HAL is at 14^th position with just a single point from 12 matches.

Match is slated for 3 pm tomorrow, January 4, 2012.

Mumbai FC’s aim for a win

Pune: Riding on the back-to-back home wins, Mumbai FC goes into fourth straight home match against Chirag United Kerala at the Balewadi Sports Complex, with a chance to consolidate its position in the middle of the I-League, on Wednesday.

With No 12 placed Chirag United Kerala as their first opponent in the New Year, the Khalid Jamil’s side would not have asked for a better draw to put their campaign on a recovery path.

“The team is well prepared for the match. We couldn’t have asked for more and would like to take full points in the bag at the end of the day,” said the Mumbai FC manager Henry Picardo.

No wonder his confidence brims from the fact that their last two wins have been methodical and comprehensive rather than a slog, which had been the feature at the beginning of the season.

On December 28, it was Gbeneme Friday’s brace that floored high-flying Prayag United SC in the 3-1 win, with Keegan Pereira’s booking being the lone setback for the Essel Group-promoted team.

“Keegan is out for the match and he will be replaced by Noel Wilson. Otherwise the rest of the squad is in fine fettle and ready for the match,” informed Picardo, while saying that the team had set sight on gaining maximum points and nothing else from this match.

With Friday finding his touch and seasoned S Kuttymani also coming good, there would be enough on platter for Chirag United Kerala to negotiate.

Mumbai FC are currently on 10^th position with 14 points while Chirag are two placed below but with just 8 points and staring at a relegation battle.

In the head-to-head, Mumbai FC and Chirag United Kerala are 2-2 even with Chirag winning the last meeting, 1-0 at home in April 2011.

East Bengal beat Air India 2-1

2012-01-02T17:39:00.001+05:30

Kingfisher East Bengal 2 (Penn Orgi 25^th and 74^th)

Beat

Air India 1 (Henry Ezeh 51^st)

Kolkata: Kingfisher East Bengal got their year off to a great start as they defeated Air India 2-1 in the 13^th round of the I League encounter played at the Yuba Bharati Krinangan, Kolkata on Monday. Penn Orji turned out to be the savior for Kingfisher East Bengal scoring a brace in the 25th and 74th minute after Air India equalised early in the second half through Henry Ezeh in the 51st minute. Air India started the match without Sandesh Gadkari, Mohammed Shafi and Kali Aluadeen while East Bengal missed the services of Mehtab Hussain ruled out due to suspensions. East Bengal dominated early on in the match with Robin Singh hitting the post of a header in the 13th minute. Thereafter, East Bengal pressed further towards the Air India goal and eventually Penn Orji scored the first goal for Red & Gold placing the ball over the goalkeeper after defender Pratik Chowdhury failed to clear the ball. In the 34th minute Robin Singh struck the post a second time off a flick and the score stayed 1-0 till half time. However, in the 51st minute Air India equalised when Henry Ezeh scored off a cross. Just when it looked like the match would end in a tie Penn Orji scored a second goal off a powerful strike from a Sanju Pradhan pass. East Bengal held on the lead for rest of the match to register the victory against Air India. Man of the Match was awarded to Penn Orji.

Table topper Dempo to face Prayag United

2012-01-02T17:37:00.001+05:30

Goa : Dempo Sports Club will seek to raise their game a few notches as they tackle Prayag United at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Tuesday.Dempo are enjoying their stay at the top of the table again but assistant coach Mauricio Afonso believes they have to raise the bar against Prayag United, one of the trickiest team in the competition.“It’s never easy playing a team like Prayag United. They are strong and are capable of springing a surprise. We are, however, confident about ourselves and know we will get the three points we are looking out for,” said Afonso.Dempo will miss the services of defender Sameer Naik (double booking) but with Valeriano Rebello available for selection, there will not be a selection headache.Upfront, Nigerian striker Koko Sakibo will once again be relegated to the bench despite strong showing in the last couple of matches as a second half substitute.“Koko is an excellent choice for the later part of the game. Moreover, Joy Ferrao is hardworking and is doing the job appreciably. Joy will start alongside Ranty,” said the former India captain.Prayag United had a great run at the start of the competition but several draws and an unexpected 1-3 loss against Mumbai FC in the last match have pegged them back. Coach Sanjoy Sen will seek a positive result against the former champions.“It was unfortunate that we lost against Mumbai FC in the last game and we have to make amends now. Hopefully, we will be able to secure a win against Dempo.“Dempo is a strong side. They have excellent players in all departments and a very good coach at the helm of affairs. But football is very unpredictable. The I-League itself has proved how results can go the wrong way. If Air India can defeat Dempo, so can we,” said Sen.Dempo stays at the top of the table with 27 points from 12 matches, while Prayag have 18 points from 12 matches.

Pune FC hope to stop Bagan juggernaut

Pune: Pune FC wouldn’t have asked for a better position to start the New Year with, but a win instead of a draw in the last match of 2011 will always remain a dream something that would have given a new vigour to the team having broken into the 20-point barrier.

But, it was not to be as the bottom scrappers Pailan Arrows held the Derrick Pereira’s team to 1-1 draw in Kolkata making Pune FC surge upwards a tad bit difficult than it would have been.

“The draw was not a worry. Not at all! It was a different situation and my team responded well. We will take positives from that match,” is how Pereira puts up brave face on the eve of their Round XIII match of the I-League Football Championship against McDowell Mohun Bagan at the Balewadi Sports Complex ground here on Tuesday.

For both the teams, Tuesday’s match is equally important, as the 11-day break when three players from each team will be away on national duty to play against FC Bayern Munich in Bhaichung Bhutia farewell match in New Delhi.

The two teams have met four times in the I-League and the last three encounters have ended in draws, two being goalless and one, a 1-1 draw. Pune FC lost to Mohun Bagan last way back in 2009 November at Balewadi, but then the host were then relative newcomers to the top level of League football.

Going by the law of averages, a win for Pune FC is very much in asking, but then even a draw would suffice for the home team that will help them break into the 20-point bracket.

“The match against Mohun Bagan will be a tough one. They have good players in their ranks despite the exclusions,” said Pereira adding that Pune FC was ready for the Kolkata side no matter what has been Bagan’s recent performance.

Mohun Bagan is at 3^rd position with 24 points from 12 matches, while Pune are at 5^th position with 19 points from 12 matches.

New Year, New Match, New Slogan

2012-01-02T17:24:00.001+05:30

KOLKATA: The last match was a sort of nightmare for Kingfisher East Bengal. They had travelled all the way to Goa and it was a grudge match for them. After all, the rivals were the defending champions Salgaocar who had played spoilsport in the Federation Cup final earlier this season.But it turned out to be a match which the Red-and-Gold would love to forget; the earlier the better. You can afford to leave aside the 4-0 drubbing as well as the red-card to Mehtab Hosain – but one cannot afford to get the campaign derailed – because a lot of football in the League is still left to be played.A day prior to East Bengal taking on Air India, East Bengal Coach Trevor Morgan said: “We need to put the last match behind us and Monday (January 2) is a new day. It’s in fact, a new year. We will start from scratch – it’s a must-win match for us.”“We need to keep ourselves in the top-half in the table,” he added.Air India, who have been consistent in the League so far, however, couldn’t live up to the billing in their last match where they lost the plot to McDowell Mohun Bagan in the last twenty minutes to lose 1-3.Coach Santosh Kashyap, nevertheless, put up a brave face. “It’s a big-match for us. It’s an away match for us but we intend to play as an unit. We will get our chances and if we can convert them, anything can happen,” he maintained.“It’s the New Year. The earlier matches don’t affect us anymore. Our slogan is simple – play positive.”East Bengal stay on 23 points from 12 matches while Air India are on 19 points from 12 matches.

Dipa took five medals in South Asian Gymnastics’

2012-01-01T16:00:00.001+05:30

Agartala : Indian top women gymnast Dipa Karmakar securedfive medals including two gold in the South Asian Gymnastics’ championship in Dhaka,

Bangladesh

.This is the first time her career, Tripura golden girl Dipa clinched medal frominternational arena.

After the prestigious title of team championship, Dipabagged another gold medal in individual category from her favorite apparatusVaulting Table. She secured silver from Uneven Bar and bronze from BalancingBeam. She also finished second position and bagged another silver medal fromindividual all round category.

Both Dipa and her coachBiswaswar Nandi were very much pleased for this performance. When arrived fromDhaka to Akhaura border on Saturday afternoon Secretary of Tripura SportsCouncil Kamal Saha, Secretary of Tripura Gymnastics Association DilipBhattacharjee, Arjun gymnast Mantu Debnath and sport lovers were welcome bothDipa and Biswaswar.

Tripura Yoga team lifts runner-up title

2012-01-01T15:59:00.003+05:30

Agartala : Tripura Yoga team clinched therunner-up trophy in the National Yoga Championship in Ernaculam, Kerala onSaturday last.

In the two days championship, Tripura Yoga players showedtheir talents and bagged silver medal in team events. Bengaland Karnataka finished first and third position respectively.

In individual section Tripura bagged one gold, three silverand three bronze medals. Prasenjit Majumder lifted gold in boy’s 20-23 year’s category.Three silver medals bagged by Sagar Deb in boy’s 8-14 year’s, Harisankar Dattain boy’s 30-40 year’s and Sushmita Baidya in girl’s 12-18 year’s categories. Threebronze medal holders are Puja Majumder in girl’s 12-18 year’s, SuchandaChowdhury in girl’s 18-25 year’s and Amarta Das in boy’s 8-14 year’scategories.

Siddle and Herath achieve career-best rankings

2012-01-01T15:58:00.002+05:30

Tendulkar rises, Kallis slips as Ponting gains seven places to sit just outside the top 20

Dubai : Australia fast bowler Peter Siddle and Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath have achieved career-best rankings in the Reliance ICC Player Rankings for Test bowlers after good performances in the Melbourne and Durban Tests, respectively which finished on Thursday.

Siddle, who took three for 63 and three for 42 in Australia’s 122-run victory over India, has jumped five places to seventh position where he is joined by Herath who has claimed six spots after recording match figures of nine for 128 which turned out to be the cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s 208-run victory over South Africa.

Australia fast bowlers Ben Hilfenhaus and James Pattinson, and Sri Lanka seamerChanaka Welegedara have also moved in the right direction.

Hilfenhaus, who took five for 75 and two for 39, has gained seven spots in the rankings and now sits just outside the top 20 in 22^nd position, man of the match Pattinson has been rewarded for match figures of six for 108 with a jump of five places which puts him in 31^stspot while Welegedara has moved from 35^th to 29^th position after match figures of five for 85.

There is something to cheer for India fast bowler Umesh Yadav and South Africa’s debutant Marchant de Lange.

Yadav has moved up five places to 42^nd spot after figures of three for 106 and four for 70 while de Lange has entered in 51^st position after figures of seven for 81 and one for 45.

The bowling list is still headed by South Africa’s Dale Steyn.

There is plenty of reshuffle in the Reliance ICC Player Rankings for Test batsmen.

Jacques Kallis’ first pair in an illustrious 149-Test career means he has slipped from second to fourth where he is joined by India’s iconic batsman Sachin Tendulkar who has gained two places after scores of 73 and 32.

Other batsmen inside the top 50 and making upward movements include Hashim Amla (up by three to seventh), Thilan Samaraweera (up by three to 13^th), Mike Hussey (up by one to 16^th), Virender Sehwag (up by one to 18^th), Ricky Ponting (up by seven to 24^th), Tillekeratne Dilshan (up by one to 33^rd) and Prasanna Jayawardena (up by one to 48^th).

Sri Lanka’s middle-order batsman Dinesh Chandimal and Australia opener Ed Cowan have entered in 54^th and 61^st positions, respectively after making impressive debuts.

The batting list is headed by Kumar Sangakkara who became the eighth Sri Lanka batsman to score a zero and century in the same Test. Other Sri Lanka batsmen to achieve the rare distinction include Arjuna Ranatunga, Aravinda de Silva, Hashan Tillekeratne, Tillekeratne Dilshan, Marvan Atapattu, Mahela Jayawardena and Prasanna Jayawardena.

Reliance ICC Test Rankings (as on 30 December, after Melbourne and Durban Tests)

Batsmen (top 20)

Rank (+/-) Player Team Pts Ave HS Rating

1 ( - ) K. Sangakkara SL 863 56.23 938 v Eng at Kandy 2007

2 (+1) Alastair Cook Eng 823 49.72 836 v Ind at Edgbaston 2011

3 (+1) Ian Bell Eng 822! 49.28 822 v Ind at The Oval 2011

4= (+2) S.Tendulkar Ind 796 56.00 898 v Zim at Nagpur 2002

(-2) Jacques Kallis SA 796 56.24 935 v NZ at Centurion 2007

6 (-1) Younus Khan Pak 789 53.03 880 v SL at Lahore 2009

7 (+3) Hashim Amla SA 777 47.32 842 v Ind at Kolkata 2010

8= ( - ) Jonathan Trott Eng 776* 57.79 856 v SL at Cardiff 2011

(-1) AB de Villiers SA 776 47.91 810 v Ind at Centurion 2010

10 (+1) Kevin Pietersen Eng 770 50.48 909 v WI at Headingley 2007

11 (-2) Rahul Dravid Ind 768 53.11 892 v Pak at Kolkata 2005

12 (+1) S.Chanderpaul WI 766 49.28 901 v NZ at Napier 2008

13 (+3) T.Samaraweera SL 750 52.64 766 v Eng at The Rose Bowl 2011

14 (-2) Graeme Smith SA 743 49.64 843 v Eng at Johannesburg 2010

15 ( - ) Misbah-ul-Haq Pak 730 46.34 735 v SL at Sharjah 2011

16 (+1) Mike Hussey Aus 725 50.33 921 v WI at Kingston 2008

17 (-3) VVS Laxman Ind 698 46.64 781 v WI at Dominica 2011

18 (+1) Virender Sehwag Ind 690 51.96 866 v SL at Galle 2010

19 (+1) Darren Bravo WI 683*! 52.50 683 v Ind at Mumbai 2011

20= (-2) Michael Clarke Aus 679 45.81 855 v Eng at Headingley 2009

(+1) Matt Prior Eng 679 44.71 692 v Ind at Trent Bridge 2011

(+1) Ross Taylor NZ 679 40.81 775 v Pak at Wellington 2009

Other selected rankings

Rank (+/-) Player Team Pts Ave HS Rating

24 (+7) Ricky Ponting Aus 635 52.36 942 v Eng at Adelaide 2006

25 (-2) M.Jayawardena SL 633 50.72 883 v Ind at Ahmedabad 2009

31 (-4) G.Gambhir Ind 589 46.67 886 v SL at Kanpur 2009

33 (+1) T.Dilshan SL 569 40.88 700 v Ind at Ahmedabad 2009

34 (-3) Ashwell Prince SA 567 41.64 756 v Pak at Centurion 2007

36 (-1) MS Dhoni Ind 549 37.75 662 v SA at Kolkata 2010

37 ( - ) Angelo Mathews SL 547* 40.46 582 v Pak at Dubai 2011

39 (-1) Brad Haddin Aus 532 35.54 637 v WI at Perth 2009

42 (-2) N.T.P’thana SL 514 33.54 547 v Pak at Sharjah 2011

48 (+1) P.Jayawardena SL 475 31.88 504 v Eng at The Rose Bowl 2011

50 (-3) Mark Boucher SA 470 30.20 566 v WI at Port-of-Spain 2010

54 (NEW) D.Chandimal SL 435*! 56.00 435 v SA at Durban 2011

61 (NEW) Ed Cowan Aus 383*! 38.00 383 v Ind at Melbourne 2011

63 (-3) David Warner Aus 377* 48.75 387 v NZ at Hobart 2011

82 (-20) Shaun Marsh Aus 312* 41.00 427 v SL at Colombo (SSC) 2011

86 (+2) Peter Siddle Aus 284 ! 16.32 284 v Ind at Melbourne 2011

88 (+16) R.Ashwin Ind 281*! 36.40 281 v Aus at Melbourne 2011

89 (+1) Rangana Herath SL 279! 16.80 279 v SA at Durban 2011

96 (+4) Dale Steyn SA 255! 15.77 255 v SL at Durban 2011

Bowlers (top 20)

Rank (+/-) Player Team Pts Avge Econ HS Rating

1 ( - ) Dale Steyn SA 898 22.90 902 v SL at Centurion 2011

2 ( - ) James Anderson Eng 811 30.57 813 v Ind at Edgbaston 2011

3 ( - ) Graeme Swann Eng 755 28.82 858 v Pak at Lord's 2010

4 ( - ) Stuart Broad Eng 744! 32.00 744 v Ind at The Oval 2011

5 ( - ) Morne Morkel SA 731 30.18 776 v Aus at Cape Town 2011

6 ( - ) Zaheer Khan Ind 722 31.45 752 v SA at Durban 2010

7= (+6) Rangana Herath SL 681! 33.71 681 v SA at Durban 2011

(+5) Peter Siddle Aus 681*! 30.78 681 v Ind at Melbourne 2011

9 (-2) Shakib Al Hasan Ban 678* 31.33 680 v WI at Mirpur 2011

10 (-2) Daniel Vettori NZ 654 33.67 681 v Aus at Auckland 2000

11 (-2) Saeed Ajmal Pak 645* 30.16 651 v Ban at Chittagong 2011

12 (-2) Tim Bresnan Eng 623*! 23.60 623 v Ind at The Oval 2011

13 (-2) Chris Tremlett Eng 619* 25.67 638 v Ind at Lord's 2011

14 ( - ) Shane Watson Aus 603* 28.01 633 v SA at Cape Town 2011

15 ( - ) Mitchell Johnson Aus 601 31.29 825 v Eng at Cardiff 2009

16 ( - ) Chris Martin NZ 598 34.46 643 v Eng at Lord's 2004

17 (+1) Umar Gul Pak 594 33.24 627 v WI at Karachi 2006

18 (-1) Pragyan Ojha Ind 589* 34.62 595 v WI at Mumbai 2011

19 ( - ) Abdur Rehman Pak 586*! 30.98 586 v Ban at Mirpur 2011

20 ( - ) Harbhajan Singh Ind 577 32.22 765 v NZ at Wellington 2002

Other selected rankings

Rank (+/-) Player Team Pts Avge Econ HS Rating

21 ( - ) Ishant Sharma Ind 569 35.97 671 v WI at Dominica 2011

22 (+7) Ben Hilfenhaus Aus 564 *! 32.58 564 v Ind at Melbourne 2011

27 (-1) Ryan Harris Aus 540 * 21.37 562 v SA at Cape Town 2011

28 (-1) Vernon Philander SA 517 * 12.37 522 v SL at Centurion 2011

29 (+6) C.Welegedara SL 492 *! 37.73 492 v SA at Durban 2011

31 (+5) James Pattinson Aus 467 *! 15.20 467 v Ind at Melbourne 2011

34 (-4) Jacques Kallis SA 458 32.74 742 v Eng at Headingley 2003

35 (-2) R.Ashwin Ind 419 * 24.80 436 v WI at Mumbai 2011

38 (+3) Dilhara Fernando SL 403 * 37.75 543 v Ban at Colombo (PSS) 2007

42 (+5) Umesh Yadav Ind 385 *! 22.93 385 v Aus at Melbourne 2011

48 (-4) Nathan Lyon Aus 314 * 27.47 356 v NZ at Hobart 2011

51 (NEW) Marchant de Lange SA 299 *! 15.75 299 v SL at Durban 2011

58 ( - ) T.Dilshan SL 255 *! 39.93 255 v SA at Durban 2011

66 (-1) Virender Sehwag Ind 198 * 44.58 320 v Aus at Delhi 2008

67 (+8) Imran Tahir SA 178 *! 39.44 178 v SL at Durban 2011

75 (-1) Sachin Tendulkar Ind 136 * 54.33 235 v Aus at Kolkata 2001

79 (-6) Mike Hussey Aus 123 * 29.66 140 v NZ at Hobart 2011

80 (+9) Thisara Perera SL 118 *! 53.00 118 v SA at Durban 2011

81 (-2) Trent Boult NZ 116 *! 20.00 116 v Aus at Hobart 2011

82 (-3) Michael Clarke Aus 114 * 37.47 265 v NZ at Wellington 2005

91 (-1) Angelo Mathews SL 79 * 64.85 110 v Pak at Colombo (SSC) 2009

All-rounders (top five)

Rank (+/-) Player Team Pts HS Rating

1 ( - ) Shakib Al Hasan Ban 404 /*! 404 v Pak at Mirpur 2011

2 (+1) Daniel Vettori NZ 385 412 v Pak at Napier 2009

3 (+2) Stuart Broad Eng 376! 376 v Ind at The Oval 2011

4 ( - ) Shane Watson Aus 371 /* 394 v SA at Johannesburg 2011

5 (-3) Jacques Kallis SA 365 616 v Pak at Durban 2002

*indicates provisional rating; a batsman qualifies for a full rating after a minimum of 40 started innings; a bowler qualifies for a full rating after he has conceded 1,500 runs.

!indicates career-highest rating

Happy New Year 2012.......

2011-12-31T21:06:00.001+05:30

Salgaocar beat 10 men East Bengal 4-0

2011-12-31T20:57:00.001+05:30

Salgaocar SC 4 (Francis Fernandes 23; Ryuji Sueoka 67th; Elijah Junior 85th; Nicolau Colaco 90+)
Beat
Kingfisher East Bengal 0
Goa: Salgaocar Sports Club maintained their perfect record against East Bengal at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, for almost a decade after they scurried to a 4-0 victory in a 12th round I-League clash on Thursday.
East Bengal have not won against Salgaocar since the 2001 National Football League and when captain Mehtab Hossain was sent off in the 16th minute for a second bookable offence, it was clear that East Bengal’s jinx would continue for some more time.
Goals from Francis Fernandes, Ryuji Sueoka, Elijah Junior and Nicolau Colaco helped Salgaocar score a much needed victory.
East Bengal and Salgaocar started evenly but Mehtab’s sending off for successive fouls on Francis Fernandes and Ryuji changed the equation.
Once Mehtab was off and East Bengal reduced to 10-man, Salgaocar enjoyed the upperhand.
Salgaocar opened the account in the 25th minute after Francis Fernandes was at the right place at the right time to give finishing touches to a headed ball from Edeh Chidi. East Bengal defender Nirmal Chhetri tried to curtail Francis’ attempt, but the ball deflected and beat goalkeeper Sandip Nandy under the East Bengal goal.
Salgaocar led 1-0 at the change of ends.
In the second session, East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan made a double substitution at the start but Salgaocar, enjoying a player advantage, continued to hold sway.
Salgaocar calmed nerves in the 68th minute when Ryuji followed up on a long ball from Thounaojam D. Singh, ran some distance before getting the better of Nandy.
Substitute Junior Elijah then added his name to the scoresheet as he completed a move that was initiated by Marcus Mascarenhas five minutes from close.
Bad got worse for East Bengal in the last minute of play when Nicolau Colaco’s ball was headed into his own goal by Nirmal Chhetri.
Salgaocar also finished with 10 players after Biswajit Saha was issued the marching orders.
Ryuji Sueoka was declared Man of the match.
After this win Salgaocar SC leapfrog to 8th position with 16 points from 12 matches. While Kingfisher East Bengal remains at 4th position with 23 points from 12 matches.

Pailan Arrows 1 (Jibon Singh 16th)
d/w
Pune FC 1 (Keita Mandjou 43rd)
Pailan Arrows hold Pune FC 1-1
Kolkata: Pailan Arrow played draw with Pune FC 1-1, in the Xll round of the I League match played at the Salt Lake Stadium, on Thursday. Jibon Singh scored in 16th minute for Pailan, while Keita Mandjou restored parity for Pune in 43rd minute.
Pune FC are now at 5th position with 19 points from 12 matches. While Pailan Arrows remains at 13th position with 7 points from 12 matches.
Pailan Arrow's goalie Naveen Kumar was awarded Man-of-the-Match award.

Shillong Lajong 1 (Christopher)
Beat
Chirag United Kerala 0
Shillong Lajong beat Chirag United 1-0
Guwahati: Riding on a solitary goal by Christopher Shillong Lajong beat Chirag United Kerala 1-0, in the Xll round of the I League match played at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Guwahati, on Thursday. The only goal of the match was scored by Christopher.
Shilling Lajong now have 16 points from 12 matches, while Chirag United Kerala have 8 points from the 12 matches.

Dipa finish top in South Asian Gymnastics’

2011-12-28T22:34:00.001+05:30

Agartala : Golden girl of Tripura and top women Gymnast of the country, Dipa Karmakar and her team lifted champion title in the women section of South Asian Gymnastics’ in Dhaka on Wednesday.
Dipa who representing India showed her brilliancy and finished top her team in the championship. Host Bengladesh and Srilanka bagged second and third place respectively.
Indian men team finished second position in the team event in the tourney.
Dishani clinch silver in National school Yoga
Dishani Lodh lifted Silver medal in the National School Yoga in New Delhi on Wednesday. In the girl’s under-14 section Dishani bagged this medal for Tripura. In under-14 boys section Shubhratanu Saha finished fourth position.

Savio names 23-players for Bayern Munich match

2011-12-28T22:00:00.002+05:30

NEW DELHI : The following 23 footballers have been named by National Coach Savio Medeira to be a part of the Indian squad for Exhibition Match against Bayern Munich slated to be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on January 10. The footballers have been asked to report for the Camp in Delhi on January 7, 2011.
The list of 23 players is as follows:
GOALKEEPERS: Karanjit Singh (Salgaocar SC), Subhasish Roychowdhury (Dempo SC), Felix (Churchill Brothers).
DEFENDERS: Jaspal Singh (Salgaocar), Sameer Naik (Dempo SC), Gouramangi Singh (Churchill Brothers), Govin Singh (United Sikkim Football Club), Nirmal Chhetri (Kingfisher East Bengal), Syed Rahim Nabi (McDowell Mohun Bagan), Adil Khan (Sporting Clube de Goa), Gurjinder Singh (Pune FC).
MIDFIELDERS: Reisangmi Vashum (Kingfisher East Bengal), Jewel Raja Shaikh (McDowell Mohun Bagan), Climax Lawrence (Dempo SC), Rakesh Masih (McDowell Mohun Bagan), Baldeep Singh (Pune FC), Clifford Miranda (Dempo SC), Lalrindika Ralte (Churchill Brothers), Rocus Lamare (Salgaocar).
FORWARDS: Jeje Lalpeklua (Pune FC), Bhaichung Bhutia, Sushil Singh (United Sikkim Football Club), CS Sabeeth (Pailan Arrows).

Opara hat-trick propels Churchill Brothers

2011-12-28T21:58:00.002+05:30

Churchill Brothers 5 (ND Opara – 8th, 26th, 52nd; Bineesh Balan – 39th, 75th) beat
Sporting Clube de Goa 0

MARGAO: Man-of-the-match Ndubuisi Opara scored a hat-trick as Churchill Brothers Sports Club capitalised on a weak Sporting Clube de Goa defence to register a 5-0 win at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda.
Churchill were hungry for a win after losing their last match against Pune FC, and they made their intentions right from the start when Opara opened the account in the eighth minute itself. From there on, it was Churchill Brothers all the way as Opara completed his hat-trick and substitute Bineesh Balan added two more goals to complete Churchill’s biggest win of the season. Churchill led 3-0 at the change of ends.
Much of Sporting Clube’s woes were a result of poor defending. With Samananda Singh left on the bench, Sporting’s make shift defensive pairing could not withstand the pressure.
Churchill surged ahead in the eigth minute when Lalrindika Ralte’s feeble shot was deflected of Adil Khan’s legs only to Opara who, given an open passage, lost no time in finding the back of the net.
Opara made it 2-0 in the 26th minute when Bineesh Balan’s cross was headed towards the goal by Mohammad Rafi. The ball, however, hit the crossbar and rebounded nicely into the path of Opara who only had to guide it into the goal.
Balan then added his name to the scoresheet as he turned home Steven Dias’ remarkable cross from the right into the goal.
There was no respite for Sporting Clube in the second session as well as Opara complete his hat-trick eight minutes after resumption of play. Steven, once again came up with a well measured cross into the goalmouth, and Opara was provided with enough space and time to head home.
Balan made it 5-0 in the 75th minute as Rafi split the defence with a through ball and Balan completed the formalities.
The win took Churchill’s points tally to 26 points but with Dempo Sports Club also registering a win against HAL in Bangalore had to settle for the second spot.

Dempo fly past HAL

Dempo SC 3 (Ranti Martins – 55th, 68th; Climax Lawrence – 90th)
Beat
HAL
BANGALORE: Dempo SC stayed on the top of the I-League table with a convincing 3-0 victory over HAL. After a barren first half, Dempo surged into the lead when Ranti Martins scored the opening goal in the 55th minute.
Ranti doubles the lead thirteen minutes later – in the 68th minute. Climax Lawrence scored Dempo’s third goal in the 90th minute. The lead keeps Dempo at the top of the I-League table with 27 points from 12 matches while HAL languish at the bottom of the table with 1 points from same number of matches.

Pailan take on Pune FC

KOLKATA: Pailan Arrows stay desperate to register a win under their belt in the I-League and they would be going all out when they take on Pune FC in a crucial 12th round clash at the Salt Lake Stadium on December 29.
Pailan, who have 6 points under their belt, all courtsey drawn matches, have been distinctly unlucky on a number of occasions. But there’s no point in crying over spilt milk.
Coach Sujit Chakraborty and Technical Director Sukhwinder Singh have been distinctly missing the services of Shilton D’Silva who suffered a knee injury in the Federation Cup.
The Arrows did have a good outing in the Federation Cup where they won their first two matches – against HAL and Mumbai FC but since then, it has been a difficult phase for them.
“We know the importance of the match. The first phase of the League is coming to an end and it’s our home match,” is all what Technical Director Singh had to say.
The match would be an emotional one for rival striker Jeje Lalpeklua, who had been a part of the nucleus of Indian Arrows last season.
For the record, Pailan are on 6 points from 11 matches while Pune FC are on 18 points from 11 matches.

Lajong enjoy an edge

GUWAHATI: Shillong Lajong FC start as favourites when they take in Chirag Kerala in another I-League match in Guwahati. Lajong stay on 13 points from 11 matches while Chirag Kerala are on 8 points from 11 matches.
Lajong who started with a bang in the season-opener, the Federation Cup where they went down to eventual champions Salgaocar haven’t got off to the best of start in the I-League. Their mobility can ruffle any feather on a given day and they would be banking on Eugenson Lyngdoh and John Meyongar to spearhead their march against Chirag.

Mohun Bagan ride on Odafa brace

2011-12-28T21:55:00.001+05:30

McDowell Mohun Bagan 3 (Odafa Okolie – 41st and 84th; Ashim Biswas – 80th) Beat
Air India (Md. Safi – 54th)

KOLKATA: Riding on a brace from Nigerian striker Odafa Okolie, McDowell Mohun Bagan defeated Air India 3-1 at the Salt Lake Stadium to move upto 24 points in the I-League table. Man of the Match Odafa scored one apiece for Bagan in both halves – the first in the 41st minute and the second in the 84th minute. Ashim Biswas completed the rout for Bagan in the 80th minute. In between, Md. Safi had restored parity in the 54th minute. While Bagan are on 24 points from 12 matches, Air India stay on 19 points from 12 matches.
Bagan started with 3 foreigners -- the duo of Barreto and Lima marshalling the midfield and Odafa Okalie staying upfront.
It was Odafa Okolie who opened the scoring for MMB in the 41st minute when after receiving a Lima pass, he shrugged off two defenders and placed the ball past Air India keeper Pawan.
In the second half, Air India started on a positive note and were rewarded when Md. Safi went past Barreto to slot home past Bagan goalkeeper Sangarm Mukherjee in the 54th minute.
Just when it looked like Bagan would have to settle for another draw, Ashim Bsiwas put Bagan in the lead – and with a gem off a goal. Biswas trapped a pass from Rakesh Masih and finding the angle too close for him to have a go at the goal from the top of the box, he sidestepped Lamine to blast it home.
Odafa completed the rout in the 84th minute – a solo effort which started just outside the box and ended in the net with four defenders and the goalkeeper beaten.

Salgaocar look to upset East Bengal applecart

MARGAO: Salgaocar Sports Club coach Karim Bencherifa believes a win against Kingfisher East Bengal at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Thursday could be the turning point for them in this I-League.
The defending champions have struggled in this edition of the I-League but Bencherifa is drawing inspiration from last season’s performance where a win against East Bengal set them on the path to the title.
“This match can prove to be the turning point. Last year, we were found wanting prior to the match against East Bengal but a win did wonders to our campaign. We never looked back after that,” said the Moroccan coach.
The Salgaocar coach said his side will start as underdogs against East Bengal, despite playing the match at home and not losing to the Kolkata giants for some time now.
“Look at the position they are in at the moment. They have produced some good results and when you are placed second on the table, there is bound to be some pressure. I’m sure my young players will give a good account of themselves,” said Bencherifa, who will miss defender and captain Luciano Sobroza for the crucial tie.
East Bengal will also be handicapped by the absence of defender Uga Okpara but coach Trevor Morgan will not allow such frailties to affect his team’s march towards the title. East Bengal won their last match quite comfortably and with influential midfielder Mehtab Hossain set to make a comeback seem to possess enough ammunition to down the defending champions.
Salgaocar stay on 13 points from 11 matches while East Bengal are on 19 points from same number of matches.

Bagan aim to get back to winning ways

2011-12-27T22:01:00.000+05:30

KOLKATA: In another match at the Salt Lake Stadium, McDowells Mohun Bagan lock horns with Air India. Star-studded Bagan are presently on the fourth spot with 21 points from 11 matches while Air India stay a spot behind on 19 points from 11 matches.
The cohesion which fans expect from Bagan, especially after their signings at the start of the season, have sadly been missing. Striker Odafa Okolie who was signed for a record sum has been among the goals (8 so far) but that’s doesn’t necessarily mean he has been getting the much needed support from behind.
And with inspirational captain Jose Ramirez Barreto yet to get back to peak fitness, it has only added to the woes of coach Prasanta Banerjee. However, the good news stay that Barreto and Brazilian recruit Hudson Lima would both be back at the starting line-up on Wednesday. (December 28).
Air India, on the other hand, are a team who have performed out of their skins and are at the fifth spot at the moment. Coach Satosh Kashyap has been able to mould a group of talented youngsters into a winning combination.
India U-23 striker Manandeep Singh, a product of Indian Arrows has been a revelation under Kashyap scoring 5 goals so far – the highest Indian scorer in the I-League at the moment. Bagan are not quite known to boast about a compact defence, Manandeep will be fancying his chances for sure.
Bagan, for sure, stay desperate to get back to winning ways. A win may elevate them to the top-three; but with the kind of form Air India are at the moment, it’s easier said than done.
The kick-off is at 2pm.

Dempo keen to consolidate lead at the top

2011-12-27T21:52:00.002+05:30

BANGALORE: It might be termed as a fight between David and Goliath – Dempo SC taking on HAL in a 12th round clash of the I-League. Dempo stay the league leaders at the moment with 24 points from 11 matches while HAL languish at the bottom of the table – that too with one point.
After keeping a clean slate till the first seven rounds, Armando Colaco’s men suffered successive defeats in the next three rounds but were back to winning ways in their last match against Sporting Clube de Goa.
Nevertheless, Dempo is not taking HAL lightly, “Though, they’ve been on the receiving end, but this is a home match. I only hope they won’t choose this one as their comeback match,” smiled Colaco.
He further reckoned: “We started quite well but the boys became a bit complacent in between. As a result, we lost three consecutive matches. The artificial pitch here is relatively new and is quite an unknown territory for Dempo. It might play a role.”
“All we intend is to pick up three points,” he added.
Nigerian striker Ranty Martins stay on the top of the scorer’s list with 11 goals beside his name and he would be keen to make an impact against HAL. The kick-off is slated for 3pm.

Sporting challenge for Churchill Brothers

MARGAO: Sporting Clube de Goa have been bolstered by the return of their regulars as they prepare to snatch full points from Churchill Brothers at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday (December 28).
Sporting Clube have had a great start to the I-League remaining unbeaten in the first six matches. But in the next five, Sporting have picked up just a solitary points and are now keen to make amends.
“We have been disappointing in the last five matches. We must make amends now or risk inviting more trouble for ourselves,” admitted manager Angelo Albuquerque.
Sporting gave a good account of themselves against Dempo Sports Club, holding the former champions to a goalless draw in the opening session and then taking the lead as well. But they fell apart after the change of ends. “The team against Churchill will be much stronger,” said Albuquerque.
Sporting, indeed, will be stronger as captain Samananda Singh returns to the starting line up after two weeks on the sidelines. Also returning to the starting line-up are strikers Victorino Fernandes and Macroy Peixoto, both of whom sat out of the last game through suspensions.
Churchill Brothers, too, are keen to make amends after slipping quite unexpectedly against Pune FC. Churchill had a chance to open a five point gap at the top, but the team failed to put their best foot forward. Churchill still has a chance to go ahead and, at least this time, believe there will not be any slip ups. Portuguese coach Manuel Gomes is expected to field an unchanged side.
Sporting stay on 13 points from 11 matches while Churchill stay at the second spot with 23 points from same number of matches.
The kick-off is at 3.45pm.

Mumbai FC hope to break Prayag code

PUNE: After a loss and draw in the last two games, Prayag United SC will be playing on an alien ground against Mumbai FC, a side that has performed with varied intensity and contrasting performances throughout this season.
Prayag stayed undefeated till the end of the ninth round before Chirag United Kerala brought them down to ground at home, something that Mumbai FC is banking on to do in the Round XII clash on Wednesday (December 29).
Mumbai FC hasn’t been that impressive -- but a draw and a comfortable win in the last two matches speaks well for the ‘home’ team who have camping at the Balewadi Sports Complex ground since last 10 days.
“They have an experienced side and have done well to be at the position they are in at this time of the season, but we hope to stop their good run here after finding our form during last two games here,” said Mumbai FC manager Henry Picardo.
To be able to hold Pune FC to a draw was commendable given that the Pune outfit was on a high after winning against defending champion Salgaocar SC and then beating Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bangalore, 4-0.
Mumbai FC can also take heart from the fact that they have no double bookings giving them liberty to choose a full-strength side, even as Noel Wilson remains suspect due to an injury.
“We have watched them (Prayag) play a few matches. Though Prayag look strong given the players they have in the line-up, we have a mix of youth and experience and we hope that they will come out good and do the required job,” hoped Picardo.
If Gbeneme Friday has remained below par, it was Abhishek Yadav who found the form in last couple of matches and that raises Mumbai FC’s hopes. Cavin Lobo and Ebi Sukore too can rattle any opposition on their day.
Prayag on the other hand is a tight outfit at the back, but they have failed to kill off several matches, which cost them several points. Soumik Chakraborty and Yusif Yakubu have been at their best as is Joshimar da Silva Martins, but on a turf that is new to the trio, it will be a contest worth watching.
The kick-off is at 6.30pm.

Quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy

2011-12-26T22:01:00.000+05:30

Mumbai : The Quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy will be played from 2nd January 2012 to 5th January 2012. The draw is as follows:
1.      Hyderabad vs Rajasthan at Hyderabad
2.      Karnataka vs Haryana at Bengaluru
3.      Tamil Nadu vs Maharashtra at Chennai
4.      Madhya Pradesh vs Mumbai at Indore
Mr. Sanjay Jagdale Hony. Secretary of BCCI announced this fixture.

A lot has changed since my debut: Gawli

2011-12-26T21:59:00.003+05:30

Goa : Immediately after announcing his retirement from International Football, Mahesh Gawli spoke to http://www.the-aiff.com/ about his exploits with Team India. He spoke at length about his tenure with the National squad, the memories, his teammates, the next ‘big’ defenders and what forced him to the decision. Excerpts:
What forces you to this decision?
Football is a demanding sport. I have played at the highest level for 14-15 years and once you play for your country, you need to achieve continuously. I feel I’ve had enough of International Football. From my personal side, I feel I’ve achieved quite a lot and it’s time for me to stop now and focus entirely on club football. I have consulted my family and it’s an unanimous decision.
What has been your best moment while playing for India?
For me each and every match which I played for India has been a cherished moment. After all, not all get a chance to represent your country. I’ve been a member of many winning squads but the triumph in the AFC Challenge Cup has to stay on the top of the list. Besides, representation in the 2011 Asian Cup is something which I will carry all throughout with me.
I need to focus on club football and I want to be playing at the top level for another minimum five-six years.
Has there been any change in the state of Indian football when you first joined the National squad and now?
A lot! The football played nowadays is entirely different. The present lot is a more confident unit who understands the value of holding onto the ball. Earlier, the primary focus stayed in clearing the ball. Nowadays, there’s more constructive play. The mind stays pre-dominant in the brand of football we play now. The attitude and the fitness of the players have improved leaps and bounds.
Off the field, I’d say at present there are a lot of sponsors which is a healthy sign. The players get better facilities to stay and eat – that wasn’t the case earlier. Moreover, the amount of exposure tours has only added to our confidence.
Asked to take a pick, who would you pick as your best partner as a stopper-back. Also, who do you consider as the most dangerous Indian forward?
Robert Fernandes is one from whom I’ve learnt a lot. He stays one of my personal favourite as a partner in defence. And there’s Deepak Mondal. We spent four years at the TFA and later on partnered each other in defence. The telepathy between us was amazing. He has always been a class act.
Speaking of forwards, there’s always a certain IM Vijayan and a Bhaichung Bhutia. They always made the task difficult for defenders.
A defender, despite all his versatility doesn’t necessarily become a star. How do you explain that?It’s a trend world over. But within the team, a defender is looked up to the most even by the ‘biggest star.’ The sport is about 11 players – there’s a star in every department. I have no regrets in what I have achieved. Over the years, my teammates and coaches have understood my value – that’s one of my most prized possession.
Who are the next defenders in India who can make it big?
Prayag United’s Arnab Mondal is playing well at the moment. He’s tough yet confident. Then, there’s Raju Gaikwad (Kingfisher East Bengal) and Dempo’s Crescent Antao. Gourmangi Singh is a senior pro now and stays the guiding force for all. I’d love to see Anwar Ali make a comeback into the National squad. Besides, Ravanan (Churchill Brothers), Anas Edathodika (Pune FC) and Gurwinder Singh (Kingfisher East Bengal) are also talented youngsters.

Mahesh Gawli retires from International Football

2011-12-26T21:58:00.001+05:30

New Delhi : Team India defender Mahesh Gawli announced his International Retirement on Monday. Gawli, who represented India in 82 International Matches, informed his decision to the AIFF in a letter. He thanked the AIFF, his Coaches and Team-mates, his clubs and the fans who stood by him all throughout.
Gawli wrote: “It is delightful and so appropriate to have a perfect farewell to my International career on winning the SAFF Championship 2012 which is more heartening.” Gawli, a registered Dempo FC footballer, added that he will continue to play club football for some “more years.”

PERSONAL PROFILE:
Date of Birth: 23.1.1980
International Matches played: 82
International Debut: vs Thailand in Pre-Olympic Qualifiers (July 24, 1999).
Goals scored: 1 (vs Bhutan in SAFF Cup in 2005 -- Karachi).
Captained India in one match: vs Malaysia in Guwahati (November 13, 2011).

PART OF WINNING SQUADS:
Bristol Freedom Cup, 1998 (Colombo).
LG Cup, (Vietnam).
SAFF Cup, 2005 (Karachi).
Nehru Cup, 2007 (New Delhi).
AFC Challenge Cup, 2008 (Hyderabad/New Delhi).
Nehru Cup, 2009 (New Delhi).
SAFF Championhip, 2011 (New Delhi).

Clubs played for:
FC Kochin (1998-99).
Churchill Brothers (2000-02).
East Bengal (2003).
Mahindra United (2004).
Dempo SC (from 2005 onwards).

Chirag Kerala goes down to East Bengal

2011-12-26T21:51:00.001+05:30

East Bengal 2 (Penn Orgi 51st ; Tolgay Ozbey 90+)
Beat
Chirag United Kerala 0
KOCHI: Second half strikers from Penn Orji and Tolgay Ozbey helped Kingfisher East Bengal their seventh win of the season against the hosts Chirag United Kerala at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kochi in the eleventh round of the I-League on Friday.
The win takes the Red & Gold to 23 points from 11 matches while Chirag stay at the bottom of the table with one point from same number of matches.
Both the teams started cautiously and employed defensive tactics. The first half saw few attempts to score. Though some clear chances were made, but the strikers' inability to hit the goal mouth, lead the score to remain at 0-0 at the lemon break.
The second half saw improved display by East Bengal. Their defensive back line along with defensive midfielder Sushanth Mathew gave Chirag minimal chances on goal in the second period.
The Red and Gold went ahead six minutes into the second half, when on a corner from Raisangmi Vashum, Penn Orji made no mistake to put the ball in the goal post and giving his side the much desired lead.
Buoyed by the first goal East Bengal totally controlled the game and enjoyed had majority of the ball possession in the second half.
The only chance Chirag got in the second half was when Anil Kumar on a cross from Vineeth headed the ball toward goal post in 75th minute but it went over the bar.
The match saw some last minute action, as with four minutes of added time. The man in form Tolgay Ozbey doubled the lead for Kolkata’s side scoring from the spot, when he was brought down in the penalty area by Chirag’s goalie Sharath K. It was Australian's ninth goal of the season.
Penn Orji was handed the man of the match award.

Air India beat Pailan Arrows

2011-12-26T21:47:00.003+05:30

Air India 2 (Sanjay Gadkari – 65th; Henry Ezeh – 73rd)
beat
Pailan Arrows 0

PUNE: Second-half goals from Sandesh Gadkari and Henry Ezeh steered Air India to a comfortable 2-0 win against Pailan Arrows in the Round XI match of the I-League at the Balewadi Sports Complex on Friday.
After an unimpressive first half, Air India picked up pace on the change of ends and fired two goals in a space of eight minutes to earn full points that helped the Mumbai side climb one place above to sixth with 19 points, one better that Pune FC. Pailan stay on 6 points from 11 matches.
Air India captain Kali Alaudeen was marked, but he kept his both wings functioning as Takayuki Omi and Sandesh Gadkari responded to their skippers’ calls. Pailan did make some moves at the beginning for the second half, but their pace reduced once the game wore on. Their best chance came when a fantastic cross from Jibon Singh saw striker Holicharan Narzary in the clear but the latter headed wide.
Air India slowly regrouped. First, Muhammed Shafi set himself up at the top of the box but his powerful grounder zipped wide of left post. And on the counter, Jibon moved up from left but Fenai wasn’t equal to the occasion.
That gave Colin Abranches to get in from the left wing and his cross in the middle kissed Sandesh Gadkari’s boots before landing into the post in the 62nd minute.
Abranches was at it again, but this time it was Ezeh Nna Henry who fired home the goal to give Santosh Kashyap’s team the much needed respite considering that they had made a sedate start to the match.
Earlier, Air India striker Manandeep Singh squandered two chances in a space of five minutes something which Air India were lucky not to rue at the end. After snatching the ball from Gurtej Singh, Manandeep found himself in the clear with just Naveen Kumar goalkeeper to beat. But he shot wide.
Five minutes later, fellow striker Bijoy Basfore set up Manandeep in the box, but his left-footer went out.
For Pailan, Avinaba Bag kept the right wing alive with his rushes, but his shots in the middle were too weak for the strikers to extract something from them. On one such free-kick, Pailan captain Milan Singh shot feebly even as Air India defenders weren’t really threatening him.
Air India’s Sanjay Gadkari was declared the Man-of-the-match.

Chess : Saini clinch Bronze medal

2011-12-22T22:25:00.000+05:30

Agartala : Golden girl of Tripura Saini Das lifted bronze medal of Asian School Chess Championship in New Delhi on Thursday.

She bagged six and half points from nine round match and finished third position. In last round Saini beat her Srilankan counterpart T. S. Ranasinghe in under-13 girls section. For outstanding performance in the international arena Secretary of Tripura Chess Association Pradip Kumar Chowdhury congratulate her.

In the same section, Swata Saha bagged 3 points. In under-13 boys section Pratik Debnath took 5 and Debanjan Majumder bagged three and half points. In under-7 girls section Sayantika Nag bagged five points and in under-15 boys section Sagnik Joyti Roy t6ook four points. But they could not got any position.

Former Delhi State footballer Muni Lal passed away

2011-12-22T22:11:00.002+05:30

New Delhi : Former Delhi State footballer Muni Lal passed away yesterday evening at his East of Kailash, New Delhi residence following a massive heart - attack Lal, aged 61 years , left behind him his wife and two daughters ( one married ) . He started his playing career as a mid - fielder with Delhi' s reputed leading Shimla Youngs Football Club in 1970. He also played for walled- city famous City Club in 1980. He represented Delhi State In Senior National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy held at Goa (1972-73), Errankulam (Kerala) (1973-74 ), Punjab ( 1974-75), Combittur (1975-76), Patna ( 1976 - 77 ).. He was employed with Delhi Electricity Supply Undertaking ( DESU ) and was an active member of DESU Football team( affiliated to Delhi Soccer Association) from 1974 to 1990 and also represnted his departmental team in All India Electricity Football tournaments regularly. He retired from his present deptt., BSES in May 2011.His contemporaries were former internations- Aziz Qureshi,Arunesh Sharma, G. Bernaud, Hakikat Singh, Dalip, Matbir Bisht, Satish Rawat, Deepak Nath, N.K.Arora, Gopi Chand, Ganga Pershad, Tek Chand, Trilok Singh Adhikari, Dalip Ghosh, Rakesh Puri , Manzoor Ahmed , Deepak Nath, Baldev Sachdeva etc. He was creamted this after-noon at Kalkaji creamtion ground. A large number of soccer lovers,& officials including DSA officials players attended his funeral. The Delhi Soccer Association ( DSA ) President Mr. Subhash Chopra, MLA and its managing committee members deeply condoled his untimely death & expressed their hear-felt condolences.

Dempo rally to beat Sporting Clube

2011-12-22T22:07:00.003+05:30

Dempo SC 3 (Joy Ferrao – 63rd; Koko Sakibo – 74th; Ranti Martins – 84th) Beat Sporting Clube de Goa 2 (Dawson Fernandes – 47th; Joyner Lourenco – 90+)
MARGAO: Dempo Sports Club broke their sequence of losses and returned to the top of the table after securing a 3-2 win over Sporting Clube de Goa at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Thursday.
Dempo were down by an early first half goal but Joy Ferrao first restored parity, then Koko Sakibo rose from the bench to put the former champions ahead before Ranty Martins settled the issue. Dawson Fernandes had scored Sporting Clube’s opening goal and Joyner Lourenco added another one in the third minute of added time.
With the victory, Dempo move to the top of the table with 24 points from 11 matches while Sporting Clube stay on 13 points from 11 matches.
Eager to put the three consecutive losses behind them, Dempo started strongly and should have been ahead early in the game had Joy Ferrao’s half-volley not kissed the goalpost and sailed out of play. At the other end, Dempo goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani was required to make two good saves to keep the scoreline blank. First, he dived full length to keep out Jovel Martins’ long ranger and then when South Sudan striker james Moga threatened to find the back of the net, Kattimani proved equal to the challenge again.
Sporting Clube surged ahead immediately after resumption when Stephen Barreto’s cross from the right should have been converted by Moga in front of the goal instead it was Dawson who took everyone by surprise when his reverse kick landed in the goal.
Dempo took the setback in their stride and continued attacking. True enough they found the goal in the 62nd minute, although in fortunate circumstances. A feeble shot from Godwin Franco was diverted by a Sporting defender only for Joy Ferrao, lurking nearby, to pounce on the opportunity.
Dempo surged ahead in the 74th minute when Climax Lawrence put Koko through and the Nigerian striker was left with the simplest of task to beat Milagrio Medeira under the Sporting goal.
Ranty Martins scored the team’s third goal six minutes from close. This time too it was Climax who did all the hardwork and left Ranty with a simple tap.
There was still time for another goal but this time, it were Sporting Clube who benefited as Joyner Lourenco came up with a stunning 40-yarder that found the top corner of the nets.
Godwin Franco was declared the Man of the Match.

Bagan-Salgaocar play goalless draw

Mohun Bagan 0 d/w Salgaocar SC 0

KOLKATA: McDowell Mohun Bagan were held to goalless draw by defending champions Salgaocar SC in a crucial I-League match at the Salt Lake Stadium. Courtsey the result, Bagan move to 21 points from 11 matches, while Salgaocar move to 13 points from same number of matches.
Bagan who missed a number of their key players due to injury couldn’t capitalise on the home advantage. Bagan started with Ashim partnering Odafa Okolie upfront but there wasn’t much cohesion in the midfield.
On the other hand, Salgaocar depended a lot on Edeh with Ryuji Sueoka playing the perfect foil to him from a withdrawn position; a result of which Salgaocar looked more threatening in the first 20 minutes. But they were not able to finish it off – invariably muffing from close or failing to get past Bagan goalkeeper Sangram Mukherjee.
Sueoka should have put them in the lead in the 35th minute but his shot went wide and then in the 41th minute, Biswajit failed to place the ball in the net with Sangram out of position.
In the 2nd half, both teams went out for the elusive goal. As they pressed hard, Salgaocar got three free-kicks but weren’t able to capitalise. The best chance came in the 73rd minute when Francis failed to get it past a diving Sangram. Sangram again came to the rescue of his team when he thwarted substitute Anthony Barbossa in the 86th minute.
For Bagan, captain Jose Barreto did take the field in the last twenty minutes but wasn’t able to make any impact. Barring two long-rangers from Odafa in the first half, the Green and Maroon didn’t have much to boast about in the match.
Chidi Edeh was declared the Man-of-the-Match.

Mumbai FC breeze past HAL

Mumbai FC 4 (Abhishek Yadav – brace – 42nd and 67th; Cavin Lobo – 77th; Gbeneme Friday – 79th)
beat HAL 0

PUNE: In another match, Mumbai FC proved too strong for bottom-ranked HAL at the Balewadi Sports Complex. Mumbai FC won 4-0. Abhishek Yadav scored a brace while Cavin Lobo and Gbeneme Friday scored one apiece.
Mumbai FC by virtue of this win move to 11 points from as many matches while HAL stay on 1 point from 11 matches.
Abhishek Yadav was named the Man-of-the-match.

Air India not to take Pailan Arrows lightly

2011-12-22T22:02:00.001+05:30

Pune: Barring one injury scare to defender Kali Alaudeen, Air India has the luxury of choosing playing eleven from the entire squad as they go into the match against Pailan Arrows in the Round XI, of the I-League football championship at the Balewadi Sports Complex here on Friday.
“Kali has little bit of pain, but we are not pressing any panic button. We will take a call on him only tomorrow,” Air India coach Santosh Kashyap said on Thursday after team practice.
Coming in for their home match after back-to-back away wins in Goa, Air India is a side that now exudes confidence having installed itself firmly in the top 10 and much away from danger zone.
“Boys are in very good mood. Wins against Sporting Clube de Goa and Dempo have done a world of good to their confidence and it gives me hope that we will secure full points from tomorrow’s clash,” said Kashyap.
Air India, who are currently in seventh position, two points behind Pune FC with a game in hand, should undoubtedly be the superior side given that Pailan Arrows are yet to register first win of the season.
Nonetheless, Air India would like to keep their defences intact and not take Pailan Arrows lightly.
“They have some good players and have done well in the recent past. Rankings are one thing, but they have improved a lot since the season began so we will be careful,” Kashyap explained
While on the other hand Pailan who are still looking for a win, may go for some experimentation as it has been part of Pailan since inception, it was more than evident when they employed a nine-man defence and held East Bengal to a goalless draw last Sunday.
It may be a negative tactic, but for a team that is languishing at the bottom of the league ranking with six points from as many drawn games, anything that serves its purpose is fair.
Before going in for 11th round, Air India is on 7th position with 16 points from ten matches. While Pailan is languishing at the bottom of the table on 13th position with 6 points from same number of matches.

Chirag Kerala up against East Bengal
Chirag United Kerala is all set to face Kingfisher East Bengal in their first home match at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kochi in the eleventh round of I-League 2011-12 on Friday.
The visiting side, East Bengal, remains strong contender for this season's title race. They are on third position with 20 points from 10 games and are three points behind the leaders. An away win against Chirag will take them level on points with current leaders Churchill Brothers SC, who lost to Pune FC in the eleventh round.
Meanwhile, Chirag Kerala looked to have found some form in the last few matches, garnering five points from the last four rounds, including a 2-1 win against Prayag United at Trivandrum last week. They are currently eleventh with eight points from 10 matches.
Chirag's coach Nizam Packeer Ali remained optimistic of his boys' chances against the mighty East Bengal and said “The team is brimming with confidence after defeating Prayag in the last match and he expects a lot from his players this week also.”
Chirag’s star players Ajayan along with David Sunday and Anil Kumar are available for the match.
Meanwhile, East Bengal head Coach Trevor Morgan will heavily bank on Tolgay Ozbey and Baljit Sahni to break the solid defence of Chirag Kerala guarded by foreign defenders Charles Dzisah and Isaac Boakye.
Coming from a goalless draw to Pailan Arrows, East Bengal will be desperate to take all three points back home and improve their position in the title race
The match is slated for 6:30 PM
Chirag United Kerala vs Kingfisher East Bengal – Head to Head – In the I League:
Total Matches - 6
Chirag United Won - Nil
Kingfisher East Bengal Won - 5
Drawn - 1
Chirag United Goals - 2
Kingfisher East Bengal Goals - 11
Last two meetings in I League
Kingfisher East Bengal 1(Tolgay Ozbey)
beat
Viva Kerala 0
Kingfisher East Bengal - 3 (Syed Rahim Nabi, Penn Orji, Sushil Kumar Singh)
Beat
Viva Kerala - 0

TRIPURA SPORTS

I don’t want to emulate anyone: Sabeeth

Churchill beat Shillong Lajong 2-0

Pune prove too classy for Mumbai FC

Sporting challenge for confident Bagan

Pune FC enjoy an edge

East Bengal prove too strong for Pailan Arrows

Kingfisher East Bengal 4 (Penn Orji -- 27th; Tolgay Ozbey -- 30th & 76th; Robert Lalthlamuana -- 57th)

Beat

Pailan Arrows 1 (Prathamesh Maulingkar -- 60th)

Dempo aim for revenge

Jeje and Joaquim are exceptional strikers: Ranti

East Bengal want to come back to winning ways

Two T20 Internationals and ODI tri-series in Australia

Odafe hat-trick wins it for Bagan

Coaching Workshop concludes in Delhi

Pune FC hold East Bengal to goalless draw

Dempo beat Chirag United 2-1

Prayag United play goalless draw against HAL

Pragyan Ojha move from Deccan to Mumbai

Twenty probables for India’s tour of the West Indies

Tamil Nadu will host Rajasthan in the final

High on Bagan win, Pune FC hopes for double

Dempo not to take Chirag United lightly

Sporting Clube scrape past Pailan Arrows

ICC back Australian Government move on cheating

Pailan Arrows aim to break the jinx

Indian team selection

Lester wants to break into the National Squad

Kingfisher East Bengal get permission to replace Gow

IPL announced the fifth transfer of the 2012 Trading window

The long walk off the field but not away from it

Chhetri awarded the AIFF Player-of-the-Year Award

My heart stays on the field: Sunil Chhetri

The Anthem will stay with him forever

IPL announced the third transfer of the 2012 Trading window

This is a very emotional moment for me: Bhaichung

Indian players lit up Delhi chill

Domestic tournaments

First transfer of the IPL 2012 Trading Window

I-League stays wide open after first-phase

The match-schedule of the DLF Indian Premier League 2012

Ranji Trophy semi-finals

Composed Pune FC beat Mohun Bagan 2-1

Prayag United stun Dempo SC 2-1

Resurgent Salgaocar to face Shillong Lajong

HAL Bangalore to face Sporting Clube

East Bengal beat Air India 2-1

Table topper Dempo to face Prayag United

New Year, New Match, New Slogan

Dipa took five medals in South Asian Gymnastics’

Tripura Yoga team lifts runner-up title

Siddle and Herath achieve career-best rankings

Happy New Year 2012.......

Salgaocar beat 10 men East Bengal 4-0

Dipa finish top in South Asian Gymnastics’

Savio names 23-players for Bayern Munich match

Opara hat-trick propels Churchill Brothers

Mohun Bagan ride on Odafa brace

Bagan aim to get back to winning ways

Dempo keen to consolidate lead at the top

Quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy

A lot has changed since my debut: Gawli

Mahesh Gawli retires from International Football

Chirag Kerala goes down to East Bengal

Air India beat Pailan Arrows

Chess : Saini clinch Bronze medal

Former Delhi State footballer Muni Lal passed away

Dempo rally to beat Sporting Clube

Air India not to take Pailan Arrows lightly

Kingfisher East Bengal 4 (Penn Orji -- 27^th; Tolgay Ozbey -- 30th & 76^th; Robert Lalthlamuana -- 57th)