In a keenly contested match at the Command Stadium, Naval Base Kochi, Indian Navy beat Indian Army Red 1-0, to win the Services Football championship. Indian Navy has regained the Services Football trophy for the first time since 1980. The Navy team led by PS Sumesh, Chief Petty Officer, fought off stiff and unrelenting attacks from Army Red to hold on to the lead gained in the first half. Sumesh is also Captain of the Services team - reigning Santosh Trophy champions. Riyad Bakruddin Sea II scored the lone goal of the match for the Navy. Army Green and Indian Airforce came third and fourth respectively. Arjun Tudu, Havildar of Army Red was adjudged Player of the tournament. Players selected for the Services team were also announced at the conclusion of the final match. Surgeon Rear Admiral Girish Gupta, Command Medical Officer of Southern Naval Command was the Chief Guest. Vice Admiral Satish Soni, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief Southern Naval Command paid an impromptu visit to the grounds to congratulate the Navy team on learning about their triumph. INS Garuda conducted the event.
