Emdad Rahman
The Sonali Othith Greater Sylhet Cup 2016 was once again hailed an unparalleled success as Osmaninagar emerged triumphant for the second year in a row. Due to border segregation in the region of Sylhet, holders Balagonj and Osmaninagar entered the tournament with separate teams.
The knockout stages of the tournament did not disappoint as Jagannathpur, hailed by many as favourites, were humbled 3-0 by Nurul Hoque’s Moulvibazar. Other highlights included Dawlath Khan Babul’s Bishwanath beating Derai 3-0.
Sham Zaman was the spot kick hero as Beanibazar won a hugely dramatic and controversial Quarter Final shootout against Jamal Uddin’s Jagannathpur after the game had ended in a stalemate.
The final between Moulvibazar and Osmaninagar was a tight affair and predictably decided by a solitary goal – courtesy of British Bangladeshi football legend Shazzad Rahman, who clinically tucked away the winning goal. Amid much fanfare Repon Chowdhury stepped up to proudly lift the prestigious Greater Sylhet Cup 2016.
Osmaninagar Manager Mamun Chowdhury said, “Our game planning worked to a tee. My players clicked perfectly and I’m very proud of what we have achieved here today.”
Moulvibazar Head Coach Nurul Hoque was philosophical, “We displayed great strength and desire throughout the day. By the time the final came round our energy levels were low. Well done Osmaninagar.”
Sonali Othith Chair Dawlath Khan Babul said, “It’s been a tremendous day and we thank everyone for their support throughout. Well done to Osmaninagar. The success of this day is due to all the people – they made the magic happen. The unity throughout has been a joy.”
Faruque Mahfuz Ahmed from Sonali Othith added, “A huge round of thanks to our esteemed sponsors and especially the general public. You made this day so memorable. Football for veterans is on the up and we are proud to play such an active role in engaging with an age group that can often be neglected after they reach a certain age.”
Tournament Co-ordinator Arman Ali concluded, “This is going to get bigger and better and the passion throughout has been immense. Congratulations to all participants for helping to create such memories.”
Osmaninagar: Champions 2016 Shumon Chowdhury: (Goalkeeper) – Russell Choudhury – Repon Chowdhury: (Captain) – Mohammedan Nasir – Abu Hussein – Iftkar Ahmed – Rashid Ali – Shazzad Rahman
Sonali Othith Sonali Othith was formed in 2002 in London as the first ever sports veterans organisation formed within the Bangladeshi Community in the UK. Sonali Othith is based in Tower Hamlets and is at the forefront of promoting football for over 35s in the community and inspiring a healthy lifestyle amongst its participants. •For more information, go to: www.sonaliothith.org
•Follow Emdad on Twitter – @emdad07
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