Manchester Academy seals double victory in FFSL President’s Cup

In a thrilling conclusion to the Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) President’s Youth Cup Football Tournament, Manchester Soccer Academy emerged victorious in both the Under-14 and Under-16 categories in the final matches, which were held at the Race course Stadium in Colombo 7 on Sunday.

In the Under-14 final, Manchester Soccer Academy triumphed over the formidable Barcelona Academy with a narrow 1-0 victory. The match was a test of endurance and precision, and it was Manchester’s disciplined defence and tactical play that made the difference.

Meanwhile, the Under-16 final was an even more impressive show as Manchester Academy dominated Saunders Academy with a commanding 4-0 scoreline. Manchester’s superior teamwork, clinical finishing, and resolute defence ensured their triumph in this category as well.

The awards ceremony that followed the matches saw several players stand out for their exceptional performances. The Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the Under-14 category went to Osman Saleh of Manchester Soccer Academy. The Best Goalkeeper award was handed to Dhanashree Gunawardena of Barcelona Academy, who despite the defeat, was instrumental in keeping his team in the game. The Top Scorer award also went to Osman Saleh, who not only impressed with his leadership but also his finishing ability in crucial moments.

In the Under-16 category, the MVP award went to Mohammed Aman of Manchester Academy, whose vision and playmaking abilities were critical to his team’s success. The Best Goalkeeper award was presented to Mohammed Asfaq of Manchester Academy, who kept a clean sheet in the final, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities. The Top Scorer award was claimed by Mohammed Ishad, also from Manchester Academy, who displayed a lethal touch in front of goal, securing his place as one of the tournament’s standout players.

The tournament, which featured teams from Manchester, Barcelona, Javelin, Colombo Football Society, and Colombo Youth United, was not just about competition but about developing young talent and providing a platform for the future of Sri Lankan football.

The winning teams were awarded Rs. 100,000, while the runners-up received Rs. 50,000.

Augustine George, the President of Manchester Soccer Academy, along with other officials, played an instrumental role in organizing this tournament, which has now become a key event in Sri Lanka’s football calendar.

At the award ceremony, the President of the Sri Lanka Football Federation, Jazwer Umar, presented the Under-16 Championship Trophy to the captain of Manchester Academy.

 Source:Daily News