Ramadan Mini Tournament: Corner Legends bow out after Xidigaha pull stunning comeback
By Michael Kirwa |
Burhan and Gaza Stars will face off on Wednesday evening in another match that promises to be a cracker
New Eastleigh Primary School witnessed an evening of high-octane football action on Tuesday as the Ramadan Cup mini-tournament entered Day Two with Xidigaha coming from behind to eliminate Corner Legends 4-2 on post-match penalties. The match had ended 1-1 after tournament regulation time of 60 minutes.
Corner Legends, who finished as runners-up in the Ramadan Cup main football tournament, drew first blood late in the first half and went into the break leading 1-0.
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The resumption of the second half saw a much reenergised Xidigaha whose relentless pursuit for an equaliser, including a stunning bicycle-kick attempt that crashed against the crossbar, was constantly thwarted by the resolute Corner Legends defence.
However, Corner Legends' resistance did not break Xidigaha's spirit and their determination finally paid when they equalised from a corner at the death to set up a dramatic penalty shootout.
Xidigaha went first and took the lead which they later doubled after Corner Legends missed their first kick.
Corner Legends had a chance to draw level after Xidigaha missed their fourth kick with the score at 3-2 in their favour.
However, Corner Legends missed their fourth kick to the relief of Xidigaha who made no mistake as they converted their final kick to win the shootout 4-2.
Xidigaha now join Sharp in the semifinals who overcame Wajir Allstars 3-1 on penalties yesterday after their match had also ended 1-1.
Speaking after the match, Xidigaha coach Mohammed Hashi Wehliye could not hide his joy and congratulated his boys for a job well done.
"I thank Allah for this win and for giving us the strength to chase the game and win it on penalties. My boys worked hard and I salute their determination. I hope by Allah's grace that we win this tournament," Wehliye told The Eastleigh Voice.
Xidigaha coach Mohammed Hashi Wehliye. Photo by Justine Ondieki
On their part, Corner Legends defender Gilbert Otieno who plays for National Super League (NSL) side Vihiga Bullets on loan from Gor Mahia, rued officiating decisions that went against his team.
"Much as our opponents played well, we should have won this match had the referee officiated more fairly. We had so many decisions going against and the referee played six minutes of extra time which was not necessary," Otieno said.
Gilbert Otieno. Photo by Justine Ondiek
Otieno, 28, also said that he was playing in the tournament to keep fit.
"The tournament is competitive and that gives me a challenge that helps me to keep fit," Otieno said.
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