August 3: Two young footballers Ranjit Singh and Adams Alfonso shared the spotlight at the St Francis DAssisi High School ground, Borivli on Sunday. Both the teenagers pumped in a hat-trick each to power St Francis DAssisi to a Subroto Cup Under-17 and Under-14 Divisional Championship double. More gratifying was the fact that it came in their own backyard.Interestingly, the hat-tricks werent the only striking resemblances. The opposition in both the finals were the same St Josephs High School, Colaba, the victory margin (3-0) was also identical and even the goal-scorers sported the Number 9 jersey.
The impact of the recently concluded World Cup in France is very much evident when queried about their sporting heroes. The teenagers too were glued to the month-long football extravaganza despite, the late hours notwithstanding.
While the 13-year-old Adams is quick to point to ‘‘Ronaldo, Ranjit Singh comes out in favour of German striker Oliver Beirhoff as his symbol of excellence.
The schoolboyishinnocence is amply reflected evident when they are asked to comment on their match-winning performances. ‘‘It was nice to get a hat-trick. But, it wouldn't have been possible without the support from my team-mates, says Adams, a standard ninth student.
The 15-year-old Ranjit is also modest about his performance saying, ‘‘but I missed a few chances too.
The tenth standard student Ranjit and Adams heroics has not been confined to this present championship. They have been consistent scorers in the ongoing Mumbai Schools Sports Associations Inter-School event too.
Having gained the honour of representing Mumbai Division for the State-level phase of Subroto Cup, more accolades are in store for the goal-hungry duo under the able guidance of ex-Tatas left-winger John Alfonso.
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.