MARGAO
Former champions Dempo Sports Club achieved a 4-1 victory against the Maharashtra Oranje FC in the I League 2 at Dempo Sports Club Academy ground, Ella, Old Goa, on Saturday.
The game kicked off with Dempo displaying early impatience and a few initial errors but they gradually gained momentum. After early hick ups, Dempo showed eagerness to break the deadlock and challenge the opponent's defences. In the 30th minute, Rahul Kumar Paswan found himself perfect postiion when rival goalkeeper Pratik's clearance was well intercepted by Rahul Kumar Paswan and placed the ball into the net.
Dempo's second goal seemed to sap the energy out of Maharashtra Oranje as Dempo became stronger while appearing to toy with their opponents as the clock wound down. In the first half injury time, Bastana Singh Moriangthem was quick to react by seizing the opportunity off well measured cross from the right.
The Maharashtra Oranje reduced the margin off a counter attack when Sanchit Singh found Almar Adam inside the penalty box who beat the Dempo goalkeeper with an adroit shot in the 61st minute.
It was in the 83rd minute when Yash Vanveru headed the ball into his own goal while trying to avert the danger that made it 3-1 in favour of the Golden Eagles.
Sanwil D'Costa showcased remarkable composure and converted the spot-kick to send the rival goalkeeper in wrong way after a Dempo player was fouled and referee awarded the spot kick in the 83rd minute.
With the three points gained, Dempo are now up to 14 points in third place.
“I am happy because we got the three points, against a very good team,” said Dempo coach Samir Naik.
“We dominated many parts of the game, and when you score first, it’s much easier to win. We suffered a little bit in the second half with their corners and crosses but I’m happy because we won a difficult game," he added.
“The three points are very important for us, and now that we’re third in the group, we are in the race.” said the former Dempo defender.
