Federation cup
Bengaluru FC blank Shillong Lajong
Press Trust Of India
Vasco, Jan 2: Substitute Robin Singh turned out to be the hero of the match as his 50th minute strike powered Bengaluru FC to a 1-0 win over Shillong Lajong in the Group “B” league match of the Hero Federation Cup, here Friday.
The win takes Bengaluru FC on top of the table with seven points from three matches and put them in strong position for a place in the semi-final. Shillong Lajong who have lost all their three matches are at the bottom and out of reckoning for the semi-finals berth.
Both the teams played entertaining game at Tilak Stadium. Bengaluru FC who had the early domination with C K Vineeth looking dangerous on the right flank as he came close to scoring in the 17th minute but his shot was tipped over by keeper Bhutia.
Shillong Lajong took time to settle down but took over the reins midway in the first half with their midfield showing lot of cohesion. Seminlen Doungel, who looked enterprising upfront, saw his shot being collected by the rival keeper as both teams failed to break the deadlock in the first half.
Ashley Westwood made an early change after the break bringing in Robin Singh in place of C K Vineeth and it proved to be the masterstroke as he combined well along with Sunil Chhetri upfront and troubled the rival defense. He put his team in the lead in the 50th minute when he drove a left-footer from inside the box off Chhetri’s pass that went in after hitting the post.
The goal completely changed the complexion of the game as Bengaluru FC were on the prowl and Robin Singh who was the thorn in the flesh for the rival defense essayed three powerful shots which rival keeper saved. His shot hit the cross bar and he earned the man of the match award.
Shillong Lajong who were at the receiving ends came with couple of counter moves and nearly found the equaliser but Seminlen Doungel shot was well saved by the rival keeper.
