The inaugural ‘Battle of the Zahirians’ which is also called the ‘Big Match’ was won by Gampola Zahira (the first leg), played at Zahira College grounds on December 6, in front of a large gathering.

Zahira Colle ge, Gampola beat their Colombo counterparts by 2 goals to 1 in a nerve tingling match.

Zahira Colombo drew first blood through a goal from Shamil Ahmed in the 20th minute. S. U. A. Hassen fired in the equalizer in the 25th minute.

After lemons, the Gampola lads played a never say die game. Zakhir Ahamed scored the winning goal for Zahira, Gampola.

The Colombo Zahirians on the other hand played sans four of their regular players who were taking part in the Asian Youth Football Championship in Thailand.

The decider of the

The second leg will be played in Colombo on December 27.

It should turn out to be an interesting match as the senior players of Zahira Colombo will join their team after the overseas tournament.

Trophies were awarded to the outstanding players of both teams.

An outstanding soccer star of 1958 and a national player, Al Haj Anver Ameer who brought fame to Zahira College Colombo from 1958 to 1960 was felicitated and a trophy was awarded to him by T. K. Azoor, Principal, Zahira college, Colombo.