– Media set to play National cricketers in grudge match
Monday’s opening of the 2nd Petra Organised Futsal Championships at the National Gymnasium saw both a burst of goals and a massive crowd in attendance. Those attributes have certainly enthused Troy Mendonca as he thinks the foundation is laid for much greater excitement on the upcoming game nights.
There was certainly a high level of skill on display by the players
Mendonca who is a co-director of the Petra Organisation spoke to his publication and stated that the construct of the tournament is what has created the excitement among the fans.
“We are thankful for the support thus far and also the concept and structure of the tournament plays it role since we [have] invited 24 teams and went straight into a knockout after which we proceed into the round-robin; teams came out fighting because its either you win and stay or loose and go home,” the organizer said.
He added, “One of the things we really appreciate from these community teams is that they form themselves into groups which speaks volumes for them and we are happy teams came out tonight [Monday] and put their best foot forward.” Going forward, the organizer feels there is even more excitement to come as the version of the futsal sport allows for players to showcase their full skill level.
“The games speak for itself, lots of excitement; it’s a type of football these teams enjoy, instead of using the small goal, they now have their opportunity to do allot of shooting, for the rest of the tournament there will be lots of excitement,” Mondonca contended.
Though no sponsor is attached to this year’s tournament, Mendonca said they are still appreciative of the support given by fans.
He explained, “This progamme is one that we have on our annual calendar, we have not had anyone come forward as yet, we believe in what we do and are confident that it will be a success.”
Meanwhile, Mendonca gave much delight to the media as they have a chance to extract revenge on the National cricketers after the cricketers defeated the outfit twice in the 2015 edition of the tournament as part of the exhibition games.
Mendonca assured that systems are being put in place to have the match played since the Media team has already set aside plans to be involved in rigorous training ahead of the tantalizing fixture. The winner of the tournament is set to pocket $400,000 and the championship trophy; while the second, third and fourth-placed finishers will collect $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively and the corresponding accolade.
