Girls Football Team Kick Off

A mixture of nerves and anticipation described the bus ride on a warm Tuesday evening as a group of girls travelled the 45 minute journey to Sreenidhi International School in Hyderabad. Representatives from Grades 9 through to 12 were kitted in their newly issued jerseys, for the first competitive game of the newly formed Aga Khan Academy, Hyderabad Girls Football Team.

The squad of 16 girls fielded 9 players who started enthusiastically and confidently as the first half began. With the ball pushed firmly into the opponent's side for the majority of the period, our defence ensured that our keeper was minimally troubled. Wave upon wave of attack were repelled by the opposing defence with some strong saves made by the Sreenidhi goalkeeper. It was a corner that ultimately broke the deadlock however with the ball balancing on the goal line before being secured into the back of the net by the Aga Khan team.

The second half gave rise to a game of more tempo, with the ball moving into goal scoring positions regularly – only to be denied by a keen opposing defence. A clever pass out across the penalty area gave the Aga Khan team the opportunity they needed to fire in a goal from 15 yards out – gracefully converted by our striker. With the score 2-0, it began to appear comfortable until a counter attack left us exposed. A scrap for the ball gave away a penalty, expertly put into the back of the net by the opposing team.

The final minutes were defended well with some forays that ultimately were denied to leave the final score 2-1 to the Aga Khan Academy. A proud squad of girls returned home victorious and ever enthused to continue their training efforts as they now take on the challenge of Hyderabad's schools. Whilst many of these girls had little footballing experience only one year ago – determination and an unbreakable spirit has allowed them to demonstrate their potential, which can only grow as this team matures.