PPL crush PCAA to win third position

KARACHI: Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) crushed Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) 5-1 in the third position match to claim bronze medal in the PFF National Challenge Cup here at the KPT Sports Complex on Wednesday.

Nazir was the star performer for the winners as he hit a treble. PCAA seemed fatigued and did not show the spirit that they had in earlier games.Nazir hit in the 67th, 79th and 85th minutes to finish the 24-team event with five goals. He was joined on the score-sheet by Abdullah (21st minute) and Mehrullah (26th minute).

For PCAA, Zain landed the consolation goal in the 57th minute of the showdown witnessed by a sizable crowd. PPL assistant coach Zahid Hameed was happy with the achievement of his side. “It was our first meet and winning bronze is a big achievement,” Zahid told ‘The News’ after the one-sided match. He said that PPL had a few good youngsters who could serve Pakistan in future.

“There are at least two under-19 players in our side who are competent enough to represent Pakistan. Eight of our players are under-23. And the encouraging thing is that seven of our players have received offers from other departments,” said Zahid, who led Pakistan’s Olympic side which beat Singapore in the first round of the 2008 Olympic Qualifiers.

Zahid said it was his first coaching experience. “I will keep learning from my seniors and will also do some courses,” he added.On Thursday (today), four-time Premier League winners WAPDA will face the 2014 edition winners Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in the final at the same venue. The match will start at 3:30pm. The final is expected to be a close one as the two sides have similar styles. A large crowd is expected to turn up for the final.