Emdad Rahman
WEAVERS Football Club are Masters Champions for the second time, after defeating Cup specialists Workhouse FC in the final.
The Whitechapel-based team remained unbeaten all day and navigated their way through the group stages – containing Mohammedan, Finsbury Park, Riverside, Sonali Othith Birmingham and Revive – to reach the last eight.
During the knockout stages, Docklands and Bromley were despatched to land the boys in yellow a place in the prestigious national community final for the second time in their history.
A goalless stalemate led to a penalty shootout, with Paolo Da Graca driving home the winning penalty to seal it 3-2 for Weavers. Wild celebrations ensued as captain Abdul Monaf lifted the winners trophy.
Utility man Saim Hussain was head and shoulders the player of the tournament and duly named man of the match.
Speaking after the game Weavers player manager Atiqur Rahman, who had been a rock in defence, said, “This is the second time we have become champions with an unbeaten record. I would like to thank the players, supporters and management for playing a huge role here today. We are beyond proud.”
Sonali Othith Chairman Jamal Uddin added, “This is truly a showpiece event in the UK football calendar for not only the football but also the way it involves the community. Congratulations to Weavers and thank you to everyone for helping make this such a special day.”
•Read more about it: Under 18s get footie for a fiver at Orient Golden vets roll back years at Sonali Othith footie night