I League NEROCA FC go down 0-2 to Shillong Lajong FC
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 24 2018: NEROCA FC who are looking for a top spot in the I league Season 2017-18 lost their running streak as they went down 0-2 to Shillong Lajong FC today at Khuman Lampak, Imphal in a home match.

Both teams entered the field in 4-4-2 formation today.

Felix Odili Chidi and Subhash Singh led the frontline today while Fabian Vorbe and Aryn Glen Williams were selected to marshal the midfield for the home team.

On the other hand, Shillong Lajong deployed Abdoulaye Koffi and Saihou Jagne in the form of strikers while Juho Oh and Lawrence Doe started in the heart of the defence.

The visitors enjoyed a good start today with an easy 2-0 first half lead.

Taking advantage of the weak right flank, forward Saihou Jagne who collected a well measured long pass from Rakesh Pradhan slotted home the ball past Shambu Mistry in the 13th minute and opened the account.

Within a span of five minutes, the visitors doubled up the lead with a superb header by Abdoulaye Koffi.

The striker got on the end of Novin Gurung's cross from the right flank to headed in the second goal and disappointed the home side.

The 2 goal deficit compelled the home side to up the ante as the visitors were content to sit-back and rest for a while.

Jagne was looking dangerous on the counter-attack and was through on goal a couple of times in the first-half itself.

He failed to control the ball in the first instance and Mistry, who are playing the part of Lalit Thapa, was quick off his line to deny him.

Though NEROCA FC could not produce a bright side today, they stole the show for a while during the break honouring former Indian footballers from the State, Basanta Kabui of Keishamthong Kabui Khun and K Gopeshwar of Thangmeiband with simple presents.

NEROCA FC continued their relentless efforts to get back into the game in the second half but could not altered the scoreline despite changes they made.

The home side had some scoring chances in the dying minutes but their efforts went wide giving the away side a full point today.

The crowds which were cheering the local team in the hope that they will level the score and eventually grabbed the winner in the second half faded their cheers gradually to return home dissatisfied.

Despite the loss NEROCA FC still hold the second spot in the league table.

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