Times of India: Railways crowned Murugappa Gold Cup champions with 2-1 win over IOC

CHENNAI: JP Kush struck a decisive second-half goal as Indian Railways regained the Murugappa Gold Cup, getting the better of defending champions Indian Oil Corporation Limited 2-1 in the final on Sunday.

The match seemed to be a fight among equals right up to the half-time with one goal to each side. IOC drew the first blood with VR Raghunath sounding the board following a penalty corner in the 16th minute.

Malak Singh (42nd min) neutralised the IOC lead with his superb effort Kush sealed it off for the Railways with his goal in the 60th minute.

Both Captain Deepak Thakur and Bharath Chikara were not fielded since suffering from hamstring injuries, while season goal keeper Devesh Chauhan had to rush back home last night due to his father’s illness.

Railways received a cash prize of Rs five lakh besides the Trophy and IOC Rs 2.5 lakh. Railways star Malak Singh was adjudged as the Man of the final, while Affan Yousuf (best forward), Rohidass (best midfielder) and Jugraj Singh (best goal keeper) were also acknowdged for their good show.

Each of these players were given a high-end bicycle from TI Cycles and cash prize of Rs. 10,000.