I-League: NEROCA lose to RoundGlass
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 20 2023:
Hero I-League title contenders RoundGlass Punjab FC picked up yet another vital three points, beating NEROCA FC 1-0 at the Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal on Monday, February 20, 2023 .
RoundGlass Punjab are back level on 40 points with Sreenidi Deccan, who hold the first place at the moment thanks to their superior head-to-head record over Staikos Vergetis' side.
It was a display identical to their performance last week against Aizawl, where they also nicked a narrow 1-0 win.
Goalkeeper Kiran Limbu picked up the Hero of the Match Award on both occasions.
On Monday, midfielder Ajay Chhetri headed the north Indians into a first-half lead.
Though NEROCA responded strongly in the second period, the visitors defended well and ended the Orange Brigade's run of four straight home wins.
It was all NEROCA in the second half as they looked desperate as ever for the equaliser.
In the 65th minute, Fernandes had another opportunity to score, but couldn't keep his header on target.
RoundGlass Punjab's only chance of the half came in the 81st minute, as Poirei saved a long-range shot from Gyeltshen to keep NEROCA in the game.