Agradneya again

Later, a rampant Mastan YMCA made heavy weather of drowning Nagpada Neighbourhood House in the boys final, winning 43-34. Agradneya8217;s tall centre Gayatri Manolikar, who was rested for the inconsequential league tie between the two teams yesterday, was on fire today. Under her wings, Agradneya8217;s brood of 14-year-olds found fresh impetus. The tall Madhura Bodas, whose energies were sapped in defence yesterday, found room in offence, and contributed handsomely.

That the Agradneya girls, barring Gayatri, have two years ahead of them in this category was evident but a few times. When an excitedRucha Marathe, voted most promising player, showed lack of control when releasing too quickly in a lay-up or a fast-break, the knowledgeable in the crowd gave her the benefit of the doubt, shaking their head indulgently, 8220;she is still young. She will learn.8221;

For Indian Gymkhana, the pivot play of S Poornima was again crucial, though she left the court for the second match in succession, after committing five fouls.

NNH took the field without two of their regular stars, K Ishtiaque and Rizwan Shaikh, both reportedly away for some family wedding. With their reserves frayed beyond repair, NNH were not expected to do too well. But ones heart went out for ball-handler Kashif Shaikh. How valiantly did he fight. He singlehandedly marshalled NNH8217;s offence, and for his speed and ball sense, was definitely this reporter8217;s man of the tournament.

Mastan YMCA had a distinct advantage in offence, and a near half of their points came off offensive rebounding. Under the circumstances, they should have won by a largermargin but for some sloppy shooting.