MFL Division Six 2009-10     Naseeb v Orion FC   Match Report by Shailesh Karkera. Spectators turned out in huge numbers at the St. Xavier’s ground to witness two local teams – Naseeb and Orion FC – grind out a hard fought 1-1 draw in the seventh round of regular season fixtures in Group C of the MFL Division Six 2009-10. Both teams came into the fixture with seven points from their opening five games – a full nine points behind the runaway group leaders, Juhu Strikers. As derby fixtures usually go, a win for either team would ensure not only the stipulated three points but also bragging rights for months to come.. Kick-off! After a nervy start – courtesy of an extremely vocal crowd – both teams went close in the opening minutes with some ambitious long range attempts. Goal! 1-0 to GM. With Probin Bandri pulling the strings in midfield, Orion slowly started making some good progress into the attacking third. Just when the scales were tipping in favour of the light blues, Naseeb opened the scoring against the run of play. Naseeb Score Manoj Nikam’s curling free-kick into the box beat four Orion defenders before falling into the path of Naseeb’s Prem Almeida. The midfielder’s technically perfect half volley zoomed past the keeper and into the top corner at the far post. Goal! 1-0. Despite the setback – and the constant high decibel screams from the stands – the Orion players maintained their composure and continued to push forward. With local pride at stake, both teams were high on commitment – as evident by the tackles flying all over the pitch. The Equalizer! Orion would not be denied for long and their tireless efforts were eventually rewarded midway through the second half with the equalizer. Everyone – including the keeper – was beaten as Probin whipped in a beautiful cross from the right flank into a crowded penalty area which sneaked into the net at the far corner. Goal! 1-1. Three minutes later, Orion almost completed a remarkable turnaround through another dead ball situation. Off a corner, forward Dharshan did well to create space for a header inside the box however his eventual attempt on goal went well wide of the target Full Time! In the end, it was all square as both teams managed a point from the fixture and more importantly came out with their reputation intact. However, in terms of the race for the playoff spots, the draw was a less than ideal result – as qualification for both teams becomes a mathematical impossibility1. All in all, the highly anticipated Parel derby was an entertaining affair and served as a reminder that passion and energy can make even the lower division games of the Mumbai Football league a joy to watch. Click here for MFL Division Six Standings