KISS shoot out Sainik in MCL Cup semis

Bhubaneswar: Former champions Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) entered the final of the MCL Cup 29th Bhubaneswar Inter-School Football Tournament, edging out Sainik School 5-2 via tie-breaker in the first semifinal at Unit-VI Boys’ High School Ground here on Wednesday.

The hard-fought semifinal clash between the two former champions went to the tie-breaker after play in the regulation time ended in 1-1 draw. Sushant Tudu gave KISS the lead, scoring a spectacular goal with a long-range shot in the 25th minute. Sainik Shool restored parity off a penalty kick in the 33rd minute. The penalty kick was awarded when KISS goalkeeper committed a foul in the penalty box and Binay Hial make no mistake in converting the opportunity.

In the penalty shoot out, Masang Hansdah, Sushant Tudu, Dolamani Dharua and Mahendra Soren scored for KISS. Sainik School’s hardwork in the regulation time went down the drain in the tie-breaker as they failed to score from their first two spot kicks. While Binay Hial shot the first one straight to the hands of KISS custodian Dula Besra, the second one was shot wide by Rahul Yadav. Though Mrutyujeet Das converted the third kick, it was too late for Sainik School to make a comeback.

Dula Besra’s impressive performance under the bar fetched him the prize as player of the match, which he received from eminent social activist Jagannath Pradhan. Former Odisha Santos Trophy player Pradeep Kumar Baliarsingh graced the match as guest and he was introduced to the players of both the teams before the kick off.

Today’s match was conducted by match commissioner Maheswar Singh along with referees Rajendra Barik, Saroj Moharana, Asirbad Kanungo and Amit Nayak. The second semifinal will be played between defending champions Kalinga Bidyapitha and DPS Kalinga on Thursday.