Emarat score school title
Sports Reporter
The vive and enthusiasm among the school-goers might not be as profound as it was in 70s when the annual championship involving schools was very popular. But there was light at the end of the tunnel during the final of the Pran-Cola School Tournament final between Emarat Hossain Adarsha High and Residential Model High. Imran Uddin might be only 14. But his winning goal in the second half for Emarat was a testimony of raw skill, that the country's famed booter Kazi Salahuddin acknowledged after the final. "I'm really excited because this is the real platform to find out the future footballers. We should hold such event regularly," said Salahuddin, who himself was a product of school football. The 'big-bowl' was almost empty but the cheers of young supporters from both schools and constant beating of drums reminded the nostalgic of the days of Kishore football in the 80s. Imran dazzled past four rival defenders from mid-pitch before unleashing a right-footer and his 40th minute strike was enough for Emarat to clinch their maiden title. For Residential Model it was final heartbreak for the second successive year. The popular Dhaka school also finished runners-up when the school football tournament was re-introduced last year. Shahedul Alam of Emarat was however the real hero as the slim-built attacking midfielder remained a constant threat to the rivals with his brilliant dribbling. He also produced some good opportunities for his forwards. Later he was adjudged man-of-the-final as well as the tournament's best player by former national player turned coach Shafiqul Islam Manik. "I always try to do something like Arman Mia and Ronaldo because they are my heroes. We have gone through tremendous time in last two months during this tournament," said an excited Shahed, who is a member of the under-14 training camp under the supervision of illustrious coach Abu Yusuf. The tournament began in August with 60 teams. Ten teams played in the finals.
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