Mumbai Premier League: Kalina Rangers end MYJ-GMSC’s unbeaten streak

by FC December 9, 2024

Kalina Rangers pulled off a historic victory, breaking MYJ-GMSC’s 19-match unbeaten streak with a stunning 3-2 victory in the Mumbai Premier League.

A brace from Shoaib Baig and a sensational goal by Miit Adekar sealed the win in a game that will be remembered for its intensity and drama.

MYJ-GMSC, formed as a powerhouse collaboration in October 2023, had remained unbeaten since their debut in the league, including their championship run last season. Their remarkable streak, however, met its end at the hands of a resilient Kalina Rangers side, who executed a brilliant game to perfection.

The action began in the 15th minute when Kalina’s Shoaib Baig capitalized on a spilled save by MYJ’s goalkeeper Manoj. Young talent Seaon unleashed a powerful long-range strike from outside the box, which Manoj failed to fully contain, allowing Shoaib to pounce on the second ball and convert the rebound and bringing joy in the Kalina’s camp as they celebrated this goal loudly.

Kalina doubled their lead just before halftime, with Shoaib netting his second. Skipper Kamlesh Nadar’s costly error near the edge of his box allowed Miit Adekar to dispossess him and deliver a perfectly weighted through ball near the penalty area to Shoaib. Shoaib coolly slotted it into the far post, leaving MYJ trailing 2-0 at the break.

In a bid to turn the tide, MYJ head coach Vijith Shetty made bold halftime substitutions, introducing Tanmay and Manuel. The changes had an immediate impact as Manuel’s precise pass found Kamran at the far post, who skillfully glided past Shabaz and dropped Scott on the knees to set up Jay Bhavnani for a first-touch finish to pull one back early in the second half.

With momentum shifting, MYJ pushed for an equalizer and found one through an own goal. Pravin Kumawat’s curling delivery into the box caused confusion in Kalina’s defense, with Troy’s attempted clearance ending up in his own net leaving Scott helpless. MYJ seemed poised to extend their unbeaten run, but the joy was short-lived.

In the 85th minute, Miit Adekar delivered a moment of magic. Receiving an inch perfect switch from Arjun Singh on the left flank, Miit dribbled past Manuel with finesse, cutting inside the box. In one fluid motion, unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike into the top-right corner, restoring Kalina’s lead.

MYJ fought valiantly during the final minutes, with 10 minutes of added time offering hope. However, Kalina’s defense held firm, and the final whistle confirmed their remarkable victory, marking the end of MYJ-GMSC’s dominant streak.

Despite the loss, MYJ-GMSC remain atop Group A with four wins and one defeat. While Kalina Rangers, recovering from a rocky start to the season, are gaining momentum with back-to-back wins, signaling their resurgence in the league.