PANAJI
Sesa Football Academy and Dempo Sports Club were forced to settle for a point each after playing out a hard-fought 0-0 draw in a closely contested encounter on Friday.
Sesa FA showed attacking intent right from the start, nearly taking a stunning early lead with a long-range effort from inside their own half that forced a sharp save from the Dempo goalkeeper. The opening 15 minutes saw both sides evenly matched, creating half-chances but lacking the finishing touch.
Dempo gradually grew into the game midway through the first half, with Stenis Touthang coming closest when his powerful strike narrowly missed the target, brushing the outside of the post. Despite increasing pressure from the visitors, Sesa’s defence stood firm, ensuring the teams went into the break on level terms.
After the restart, Dempo controlled possession and built their attacks patiently. Their best opportunity came when Rahul Rodrigues delivered a dangerous cross towards Murphy Fernandes at the far post, only for Russell Vaz to produce a timely interception and deny a clear scoring chance.
The final stages of the match saw rising intensity, reflected in three yellow cards. Aman Rajbhar was booked for a foul on Asmon Viegas, while Dempo’s Sairon Albuquerque and Sesa’s Velrose Dias also entered the referee’s book.
Despite the late urgency from both sides, neither team managed to break the deadlock, with solid defensive performances ensuring the match ended in a goalless stalemate.
