Mumbai Strikers SC played their last group match against an experienced Central Railway (Mumbai Division) team and defeated them by a 2-0 scoreline. Despite qualifying for the play-off stage, MS did not take it easy and made the scores count to maintain an unbeaten run in the group stages. They have won all their matches except a stalemate with Companeroes SC. It has been a run of superior form and one of a kind as the Strikers have never had a streak like this before.

MS Coach Firmin D’souza fielded a different line-up as a majority of the first eleven were rested for this game. Rohit V debuted in the goal to fill the gap for first keeper Leon M while the defending group remained unchanged. Saurabh S & Rohit D featured in the midfield while defender Karan P was promoted to play up in the midfield as well. Aditya S replaced Ravish D in the attacking front. At the start, MS pounded the Railways defense with several through passes but were unable to convert any. On one occasion, Akshay D cut through the Railways Centre Back with ease but his pass could not find Saurabh S which was cleared from the 6 yard box. CR also had their chances but went down begging as one Kashif Jamal header from a corner went over the crossbar. The deadlock was broken in the 39th minute as Saurabh S sent a delightful through pass to Akshay D who breezed past the defender and placed the ball to the far post. On the half time whistle, MS led 1-0.

The next half also was in total control of the Strikers. They nailed the Railway outfit with continuous pressure. Abhijit S let off a super low shot which was well saved by the Railway goalkeeper. The CR goalkeeper was top notch with a double save when Abhijit once again danced his way around the defense and tried to score but in vain. However, MS were celebrating once again as Karan’s throw in setup an easy header for Ravish D who came in as a second half substitute. Ravish headed the ball into an empty net as the CR goalkeeper misjudged the throw-in. After the goal, the Railway players gave in to the tormenting heat as they went down and wasted a lot of play time. The score finally read 2-0 and MS continued their winning habit.

The play-off stages are close and will be played from the second week of February. MS will now prepare harder and Coach Firmin D has called for more focus and hardwork to qualify for the Elite Division.