The match began with Polytechnic on the front foot, applying pressure early and carving out opportunities through sharp passing in midfield. Their persistence paid off in the 15th minute when a well-timed through ball split the Tiffinians defence, allowing Polytechnic to open the scoring.
Despite the early setback, Tiffinians responded strongly. Just five minutes later, Tony combined cleverly with Sean, who dribbled past two defenders before slotting the ball in at the near post to level the match. The momentum shifted quickly, and by the 25th minute Tiffinians had taken the lead in unusual circumstances. Following referee interference and a resulting drop ball, Sean laid it off to George, whose initial effort was blocked. Tony was quickest to react, converting the rebound from close range.
Tiffinians extended their advantage on 35 minutes when Jackson launched a long ball over the top. Spotting the goalkeeper off his line, Tony showed great composure to get in behind and delicately lift the ball over the advancing keeper. The sides went into half-time with Tiffinians leading 3–1.
The second half started brightly for Tiffinians, who struck again in the 55th minute. Tony initiated the move with a short free-kick to Sean, who slipped George down the wing. George’s effort was parried by the goalkeeper, but Andrei was well-placed to slot home the rebound. Polytechnic, however, refused to fold and reduced the deficit on 60 minutes. A corner kick led to a flick-on in the box, and their attacker controlled well before firing home.
Tiffinians reasserted their dominance in the 75th minute with a fifth goal. Sean produced a moment of skill, nutmegging his opponent before racing down the wing. His precise cross found Alex unmarked, who tapped into an open net. Polytechnic continued to push and capitalised late on when a Tiffinians free kick was saved by the keeper in the 87th minute. This allowed for a swift counter-attack from Polytechnic to finish clinically, making it 5–3.
The final whistle confirmed a deserved victory for Tiffinians, who combined attacking flair with resilience despite Polytechnic’s spirited efforts.