Younis, Junaid put KPT in semis

KARACHI: Mohammad Bin Younis and Junaid Ahmed struck one goal each to put Karachi Port Trust (KPT) in the semi-finals as they overpowered Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) 2-0 in the fourth quarter-final of the First Naya Nazimabad Quaid-e-Azam Departmental Football tournament here at the KMC Stadium on Tuesday.
Following incisive rallies, KPT put themselves ahead in the 37th minute when experienced striker Mohammad struck. At half time, KPT had 1-0 edge. Young Junaid doubled their lead in the 60th minute. SNGPL showed great resolve throughout but their defence did not seem organised.
KPT coach Mohammad Asif was satisfied with his team’s performance. “I think the boys played well. Our rivals were playing with aerial ball and were attacking but we troubled them through ground passes,” Asif told ‘The News’.
He said that his team had a few youngsters who were performing well. “We have inducted a few youngsters. Initially we had taken them on Rs8000 monthly salary but now when they have started showing performances their salaries have been raised to Rs15,000,” the coach said.
KPT will face Chaman’s Muslim Trading Company in the second semi-final on December 8.“It will be a tough game as Muslim Trading Company are a strong side. But we will try to beat them,” said Asif.In the first semi-final, on December 7, four-time Premier League champions Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) will clash with strong Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC). Both departments have made quality inductions during the last couple of years.