Services clinch title as fans too fight till the end

Anil Datt

Ludhiana, April 21

It was a title clash between hosts Punjab and Services in the 73rd National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy played at Guru Nanak Stadium today, but the euphoria was just like that of a sports carnival.

During the course of this championship, which began on April 8, a handful of people were present to watch the top teams of the country vying for honours, but much to the delight and satisfaction of the organisers of this mega event, the Punjab Football Association, a good number of soccer fans turned up to encourage their respective teams today.

Though local spectators were in attendance to watch their home side in action, a sizeable number of people, majority of from the local units of Armed forces, turned up to encourage the Services outfit.

They enjoyed every bit of action taking place in the middle of the stadium. Spectators were carrying whistles, drums and were vociferous enough whenever the players representing their favourite teams enter the rival’s territory.

Sports fans of the Services contingent too were vocal as they left no chance to counter the local fans. It appeared that a contest was going on between groups of spectators too.

It turned out to be a nerve-wrecking contest in which Services managed to prevail over their spirited opponents by a narrow margin of one goal.

Punjab players were applauded by the home crowd whereas another section of fans appreciated the Services team for its stupendous performance, particularly the goalkeeper, Vishnu VK, for his fine saves towards the end of the game.

Brigadier Munish Arora, along with other army officers, was present among others to encourage Services players.

He appreciated the players and their coach, Parshuram Salwadi, on winning the trophy for the fifth time.