Victory youngster Hazim Fauzy's goal gave Victory an important win over Thimarafushi.

Thimarafushi settled better than Victory in the early exchanges. Victory scored the only goal of the game late in the first half through Hazim. Thimarafushi's freekick was saved by Mohamed Imran who launched a counter attack at once. Victory captain Imran's big kick was controlled by Ahmed Nashid(Natte) who flicked it over the last defender before crossing low to Hazim who blasted the ball home.

Thimarafushi pressed on for an equalizer. In a very even second half, Victory held on to their goal to seal their win.

After the match Thimarafushi manager praised and thanked the players for their effort. "we played without much practice, and I am happy with their performance" he said. The manager also said that Thimarafushi has had enormous financial problems and that the Association will consider this and said that he hoped this would not happen again. "FAM should see to it that the companies they assign to clubs deliver their part of the deal" he added.

Victory's Ahmed Niyaz (Niattey) said that they were very mentally down due to the financial constraints and that this should not be allowed to happen. "we don't even know what the situation is next year, keeping this in mind is a huge pressure for the players going into the second round" the former Victory and New Radiant player turned assistant coach added.

Later tonight TC Sports will play against Foakaidhoo FC in the last game of round one.

Photo: ImagesMV