The hosts Police SC suffered their third straight loss in DCL 2016 group stages losing to Saunders SC 1-0 in the match held at Police Park.
Mohamad Shaheel’s first half goal ensured that the boys from Price Park grabbed all three points against a stubborn opposition, who now find themselves in the relegation zone after Java Lane won against Air Force on the same day.
After an edgy start to the proceedings, it was Saunders who settled quickly out of both teams to take control of the possession. The well-oiled midfield of Saunders SC started to find gaps between the Police defense as the time wore on.
The young sensation Suntharaj Niresh unleashed a low strike from out of the penalty box but Police SC goalkeeper Dumith Shashika went down just in time to save the ball. Police SC looked lazy and hesitant as they failed to apply pressure on the oppositions by pressing.
Pouncing on their laziness in the 26th minute, Mohamad Shaheel gave Saunders SC the deserved lead. Shaheel’s first touch completely foxed his marking defender and all he needed was to place the ball past the helpless goalie after going one on one.
Police SC failed for a strong reply as they gave more than enough freedom in their own half for Saunders SC to work their way and create opportunities.
Saunders had a glorious chance to go two nil up when Niresh broke Shaheel with a pin point cross but Shaheel’s effort was saved by a diving effort from the Police SC goalkeeper.
Saunders made sure they go into the break with a lead as they cut short Police SC’s threats comfortably.
Half Time: Police SC 0 – 1 Saunders SC
Saunders SC started the second half from where they left as they gave no breathing space for the Police SC midfield to work the ball around.
Shaheel was in the spot light again as he danced his way through two defenders before unleashing a powerful strike but it was off target.
Police SC started to wear down and showed their frustration of not having enough possession with some late challenges. Nilantha Pathirana was cautioned by referee after a clumsy challenge.
The defense line of Saunders had a good day at work as they worked in tandem to cut off any threat forced by Police SC. Dumindu Hettiarachchi led the defense while Chanuka Eranga’s dashing runs from the left flanks gave more attacking options for the Saunders front men.
Despite dominating the possession, Saunders struggled to put the match into bed as they couldn’t find the second goal. After some time, it looked like both teams settled with the result.
In the dying minutes, Police SC showed some desperate efforts to come up with a goal. But the efforts lacked direction and plan to trouble the Saunders defenders.
Full Time: Police SC 0 – 1 Saunders SC
ThePapare.com Player of the Match – Mohamad Shaheel
Goal Scorers:
Saunders SC – Mohamad Shaheel 26’
Cautions:
Yellow Cards – Nilantha Pathirana 64’ (Police SC), Thushara Sampath 90+2’ (Police SC)
