JEDDAH — Hat tricks by Eshan Afsal and Ehan Riyas were the highlights of the finals of the 7th edition of the JSC-ISM (Italy) Soccer Academy in-house tournament at Rawda Stadium here recently. This nearly one-month-long tournament, which saw about 200 players in action in different categories representing 16 teams, ended successfully with Tamer clinching a double. The objective of the tournament was to provide best platform for the trainees to showcase their talent and improve their competency in competitions. Hence, the event was organized in four categories as Under-9, Under-12, Under-17 and parents, pooling them into four houses — JSC Tamer, JSC Sedco, JSC Jotun and JSC EFS. Under-9 In a closely-contested final, Sedco defeated Tamer 4-3. The thrilling match, which was attended by a massive weekend crowd, saw Eshan Afsal of Sedco and Ehan Riyas of Tamer firing hat tricks. However, a brilliant freekick by Hadi Aboobaker sealed the victory for Sedco. Player of the Tournament — Ehan Riyas. Under-12 Tamer blanked Sedco 2-0 to claim the honors. Stopper Abdullah’s stunning strike put Tamer ahead in the first half and Azeem Hakeem increased the lead in second half to ensure a smooth victory for Tamer. Player of the Tournament — Azeem Hakeem. Under 17 Tamer continued its unbeaten run in the tourney by beating EFS in a penalty shootout 5-3, after a 1-1 tie. Thanks to Waseeq’s excellent performance under the bar which earned him the Man-of-the-Match award. Abdul Rahman gave EFS an early lead through a fine header, but in-form Hazem struck the equalizer for Tamer. It was a superb match as both teams played an attacking game. Player of the Tournament — Hazem Ahamed. Parents In another exciting final, Jotun overpowered an energetic Sedco 2-1 as coach Sakir scored both the goals. An own goal by Noushad handed Sedco its consolation goal. Player of the Tournament — Zamir of EFS. It was very encouraging to see the whole JSC family come together to support the football carnival, hosted by a hardworking JSC committee to reinforce their sportsmanship and friendship. Man of the Match awards: Under-9: Hadi Aboobacker, Eshsn, Ehan, Muaz Ahamed, Nabeel and Yaseen. Under-12: Salman, Yedhu, Farzeen, Adil, Azeem and Abdullah. Under-17: Hazem Ahmed, Lutfi, Waseem, Mehzin, Moosa and Waseeq. Guests who graced the awarding ceremony included Dr. Noman Bantan, CEO, Al-Salaam Insurance Company; Dr. Firos Mulla, Principal, Mahad Al-Oloom International School; Shafeek, Principal, Novel International School; Najeeb Neelambra, President, Saudi Indian Football Forum (SIFF) and Mustafa, physiotherapist. Officials from various prominent sports and social organizations also attended the function. A special trophy was presented to Askar, winner of the online prediction contest. The technical side of the tournament was supervised by Bashir Machingal, Adv. Ashraf, Jazim, Salim P.R., Maxwell, Anil, Asfar, Haneef, Sakeer and Majeed. The whole event was managed by Zamir, Ashfaq, Praveen, Jo, Anwar, Fayaz, Sadik and Ismail. The closing ceremony was anchored by Rafi Beemapally and Basil Bashir. — SG