Captain of ITI Federation Cup winning team PS Lionel no more

PS Lionel, the captain of the first edition of Federation Cup champion, Indian Telephone Industries, Bengaluru, passed away yesterday at his residence at Horamavu. 

Lionel was a true representative of the bygone days of typical Mysuru brand footballers, who relied on playing short passes, and quick exchanges of positions to baffle the opposition. His best days were witnessed in Calcutta when Lionel, along with a few other Mysuru footballers, Ramanna, Pappana, and Anthony Andrews. 

Lionel returned back to hometown to join ITI after playing with much success in Chennai and Calcutta. Prior to that he represented several local teams like Bangalore Mars, Muslim Heroes, 515 Army Base Workshop, and HAL. ITI went on winning the inaugural Federation Cup in 1977 at Ernakulam, Kerala under his captaincy. 

During Lionel's tenure, ITI was regarded as one of the best footbball clubs in the country. His body was taken to Christian Cemetery, Ulsoor, the burial services took place today evening. The football fraternity were present in numbers to pay last homage to the great footballer. 

   

Former state captain, member of Federation Cup winning ITI team Kantharaj no more

A Kantharaj, 75, former captain of Karnataka state football team and ITI passed away last Friday, February 25 morning 7 am at his residence in Hoskote. 

Kantharaj was employed with and a part of the all-conquering Bangalore’s Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) team that won many tournaments but most importantly the first edition of Federation Cup in 1977.

Known for his robustness and leadership skills, Kantharaj was regular in the Santosh Trophy team thru the 70s. His most important feat was in 1976 State Nationals where he lost of Bengal in the final.

Later, Kantharaj focussed on developing football near his area of residence, he formed Town SC Hoskote. This football club was regular in BDFA C Division League. He was an integral part of Karnataka State Football Association (KSFA) and served as a general body member in KSFA.

Kantharaj is survived by his wife and three sons. The burial service took place on Saturday morning. The football association condoled the death of the former star and prayed for his bereaved family. Also, a minute’s silence was observed during the games in Friday’s A Division Women’s League.