SSGC win All Pakistan NBP Football tournament

KARACHI: The second string of Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) demolished Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) 3-0 in the final to clinch the title of the All Pakistan NBP Football tournament which concluded here at the Colony Sports Ground Malir on Saturday.

In the absence of out-stationed international players, SSGC went ahead when Abdul Salam hit a fine goal in the 24th minute. At half-time, they were leading 1-0. In the second half, SSGC maintained control of the game and doubled their lead through Larosh in the 57th minute. Raziq made it 3-0 for the winners with a solid effort in the 79th minute.

“It was a tough game but fortunately we won it convincingly,” SSGC coach Tariq Lutfi told 'The News'.

“We had not invited any of our out-stationed international player and played with the local crop as we are also going to use our bench in future events particularly the Premier League,” Tariq said.

“We definitely need players in our frontline and are searching for them. We had invited Larosh from Sahiwal for a couple of matches on a trial basis. He was not very fit but his touches were good,” the coach said.

“We also tested, unofficially, a young stopper Sardar Wali from Chaman. He is a poor boy and is from Mohammad Essa's team. He had also been tested by me in Gwadar. We are trying to strengthen our line-up,” Tariq said.

“It's very difficult to form a fighting lot from the local breed,” he added.

Head of Board of Directors NBP Imam Bux Baloch distributed the prizes. The event was organised by renowned football organiser Zameer-ul-Islam.