Mohamed Issadeen’s extraordinary hat-trick inspired Army SC to beat their opponents Matara City 3-1 in the Dialog Champions League group stage encounter at the Football Federation Grounds, Matara.
Army were on the back of a dominant 6-0 win against Blue Star while Matara City were hammered 4-1 away from home by Crystal Palace, which made this match look like another hard game for the hosts.
From the onset Matara City tried to play the game inside the Army half which unsettled the visitors somewhat but soon recovered to score the opener in the 10th minute when Issadeen powered into the box and shot past a diving goalkeeper.
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Matara City however replied within seconds when Brayan Weerappuli equalized from a left-footed free-kick sending the fans into a frenzy.
In the 22nd minute Issadeen went on the Messi-esque run from the half-way line beating a number of defenders including the goalkeeper to score a marvelous goal.
The scores remained the same until half-time with both sides exchanging a few shots on goal.
Half time – Matara City 1 – 2 Army SC
The start of the 2nd half was positive for Matara City backed by their vociferous supporters but once again it was Issadeen’s brilliance that rocked the hosts when he drove into the box and chipped the ball over the goalkeeper to score the third.
Army had a few chances thereafter with Madushan Silva having an effort blocked and another which he shot straight at the goalkeeper while another hit the crossbar.
Full time – Matara City 1 – 3 Army SC
ThePapare.com Player of the Match: Mohamed Issadeen
At the end of the match top scorer Mohamed Issadeen shared his views with ThePapare.com;
“This mighty team always keeps me inspiring to score more goals.”
Goal Scorers
Army – Mohamed Issadeen 10’,22’,64’
Matara City – Brayan Weerappuli 11’Bookings
Yellow Cards
Army – Asikoor Rahuman 67’
Matara FC – Dilanga Prabath 28’
