I League NEROCA FC suffer another home defeat
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 27 2018: After going down 0-2 to Shillong Lajong FC, local favourites, NEROCA FC conceded another home match today to Minerva Punjab FC in a closely contested I-League encounter here at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, Imphal.

The solitary goal from Chencho Gyeltshen was more than enough for Minerva to seal their 10th game of the league.

Minerva Punjab started the game with a bang as Chencho fired in a superb volley following a cross set by Gagandeep Bali from the right corner early in the 2nd minute.

The agression lasted for larger part of the first half and their desparate attempt to extend the lead handed Minerva Punjab three yellow cards in the first half itself.

NEROCA FC spent the first half under extreme hardships as the visitor kept the pressure on with fine incisive runs and few attacks they made in response were too weak.

The second half saw the local side taking a slight edge but the visitors seemed relaxed and only went forward in counter attacks which proved too dangerous.

Chencho and William Opoku were a constant threat to the local team but NEROCA's defence line stuck well and firm to avert all the penetrating moves.

On the other hand, NEROCA FC's midfield activities were effectively managed by Kassim Aidara and Amandeep Singh of the rival team.

Nedo Turkovic who came in place of Govin Singh aided the home team enhanced their attacks.

NEROCA had a change to equalise the score as soon as the Turkovic entered the field making way for Felix Chidi with a through ball but the latter failed to find the ball in time.

Lacklustre, NEROCA FC kept on looking for a breakthrough but the mightier defence set up of the visitors did not allowed much space in the box.

Chidi squandered another golden chance in the 90th minute of the match when he moved into the rivals' box from the right flank and Minerva FC's custodian Kiran was the only one he had to pass through.

He missed the easiest opportunity by shooting too wide and gave away the visitor a full point.

With this win Minerva Punjab FC continue to occupy the pole position with 25 points from 10 matches while the losing home team remained at the second spot with 21 points from 12 matches.

NEROCA FC will face Churchill Brothers SC next on January 30 at Tilak Maidan, Goa.

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