Sweet smell of success for fragrant Golapganj

Emdad Rahman

GOLAPGANJ WALTZED to a 2-0 win during a storming Greater Sylhet friendly against Bishwanath at Stepney Astroturf. 

Mohammed Zakaria introduced Stepney legend Tharik Hussain to the Golapganj starting line up for the first time, and the presence of the polished schemer was instrumental as the Roses romped home with two second half goals.

Bishwanath looked lethargic after their wonder display against champions Osmaninagar at Mabley Green last week, and many still rate Pervez Chowdhury’s men as dark horses for the Greater Sylhet Upazila Cup, which returns to Mabley Green in three weeks time.

Tharik Hussain in his heyday

A high pitched first half saw Hussain roll back the years with a faultless display of on-field craftsmanship as Bishwanath failed to curb the influence of the architect in chief. Hussain was ably supported by Rahat, Atiqul, Emrul and Aminul, and with both teams going in at the interval with the scores level there were plenty of signs that there would be goals, especially with energy levels dropping in the second half.

After the break Atiqul Islam opened the scoring before a neat late finish from Musa Uddin saw Zakaria’s men cruise home. Hussain again played a chief role in both goals. With Kamruz Zaman marshalling the rearguard, Anamul Haque made two spellbinding late saves to ensure there was no rain on the Golapganj parade.

Golapganj manager Zakaria commented: “The boys carried out their roles to the letter tonight and every player on the field gave 110%. When we work like we did tonight we are a team to be reckoned with.”

Golapganj have always been a solid team but have lacked creativity and real cutting edge up front. On the basis of this display against a strong Bishwanath team they seem to have turned the corner.

Man of the match Tharik Hussain added: “It’s great to be back playing for Golapganj, and the team were on fire tonight from start to finish. Our measured performances all over the park were key in a morale boosting win. I’m flattered by the plaudits, but really it was a great all round team effort tonight.”

Golapganj now face Chattak next week and Bishwanath will face off against Beanibazar on Monday at the same venue.

•Read more about it:
Honours even as Golapganj frustrate reigning champions
Champions beaten by impressive Bishwanath

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