PANAJI
Dempo Sports Club and Sesa Football Academy shared the spoils in a closely contested 1-1 draw in their encounter at the Ella ground, with both sides showing defensive discipline and resilience across the ninety minutes.
The opening phase of the match was evenly balanced, as both teams remained compact and cautious limiting space and denying clear scoring opportunities. The midfield battle was intense, with neither side able to assert early dominance.
The first major incident arrived in the 37th minute when Pradip Aheibam was shown a yellow card for a mistimed challenge as play broke towards the Dempo penalty area, the first booking of the match.
Dempo broke the deadlock a minute later from a set piece. Arnold Oliveira’s corner was met by Mevan Dias, who rose well and directed a precise header into the net to give Dempo a 1-0 advantage.
The turning point came early in the second half. In the 49th minute, Dempo defender Stenis Touthang attempted to clear a dangerous ball but was penalised, resulting in a penalty. Saish Gaunkar stepped up for Sesa FA and converted calmly from the spot to restore parity at 1-1.
The equaliser lifted the tempo of the contest, with both teams pushing for a winner. Dempo came close in the 62nd minute when Stenis met a delivery with a powerful header only to see his effort crash against the goalpost.
The remainder of the match saw sustained pressure from both sides, but defensive organisation and timely interventions ensured no further goals were added. Despite committed efforts at both ends, neither team could find a decisive breakthrough. At full time, Dempo SC and Sesa FA settled for a hard-fought 1-1 draw, reflecting a contest marked by balance, intensity and strong defensive performances.
