Sub-Jr Boys' NFC: Bikash's treble sends Manipur into final
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, September 20 2024:
Keisham Bikash Singh fired Manipur to the final of the Sub-Junior Boys' National Football Championship Tier 1 with a hat-trick as they swept past Goa 4-0 in their semifinal match at Bangalore Football Stadium on Friday.
The state boys will now square off against hosts Karnataka in the title clash on Sunday, September 22, 2024 .
Manipur took control early on, racing to a 3-0 lead by the 22nd minute, effectively sealing their dominance.
Keisham Bikash Singh put the state squad ahead early in the 5th minute, connecting with a precise long pass from Makakmayum Araf.
Araf extended the lead in the 12th minute with a spectacular long-range effort from 35 yards, taking advantage of Goa goalkeeper Kaustubh Dattaraj Tari's vulnerability to such shots.
Bikash was at it again as he capitalised on Goa's defensive frailty once again in the 22nd minute, his looping shot slipping through the hands of Dattaraj Tari into the net.
Bikash completed his hat-trick in stoppage time (90+4 ), skilfully dribbling past defenders before calmly slotting home.