Father Tommy Kalathoor said that from the time he arrived in Manjeri for the Santosh Trophy, he would come to pray at St. Joseph’s Church. Prior to that, the players’ jerseys were brought to the church and sold, Father added. As Bino began to attend Mass, often on non-competitive days, the church became acquainted with him. He added that he had known Bino well since he started coming to church and that he had gone to Kerala to watch matches because of his experience and interest in football.
On the day of the semi-final match against Karnataka, prayers were offered for the Kerala team at the church. Bino also came to the church to participate in the prayer. The support and prayers of the spectators energized the players. With the blessings of God combined with the hard work of the players, Kerala was on the verge of victory. Bino had said he would come to church with the crown if he won the tournament. He also came to the church to keep his word.
Beats Bengal in shootout; Kerala wins 7th Santosh Trophy
In the final match played at Payyanad Stadium, Manjeri, Kerala defeated Bengal 5-4 in a penalty shootout. The penalty shootout ended in a draw as both teams drew level in regulation time and overtime in a thrilling fight from the start.
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In the shootout, Bengal’s second kick hit the crossbar and all Kerala’s kicks crossed the line. Sanju, Bibin, captain Jijo Joseph, Jason and Jessin scored for Kerala in the shootout. This is Kerala’s third title as hosts, having won their seventh title in the Santosh Trophy. Prior to this, Kerala had hosted Kochi in 1973 and 1993.
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