Shillong: Subhash Singh struck the match’s only goal as debutants Neroca FC got the better of hosts Shillong Lajong FC 1-0 in their I-League encounter here Saturday. He scored with only seven minutes remaining on the clock for the closure of the game.
The first half of the game was filled with a lot of action as both Lajong and Neroca players adopted an aggressive style of play. It was however, Lajong who had the first chance of the game, but Aimen Saleh’s on the rise volley, skimmed wide of the target.
After the resumption, Nedo Turkovic made his debut for the Manipuri outfit, replacing Israilov Akhlidin. Early into the second session, Subhash broke through, but his attempted shot at goal was blocked by a rival defender.
The pace of the game slowed considerably with the passage of time. The Neroca players who were playing at high altitude found the going tough, but never allowed the opposition to have a look at their goal.
In the 83rd minute Pritam Singh sent in a lovely cross from the right and Subhash, left alone by the opposition defence easily nodded home to have the home supporters stunned.
The result left three teams including Neroca on points after five games. East Bengal with a better goal difference are on second position, Neroca third and Lajong fourth. A win Saturday could have propelled Lajong to the top of the table with 13 points, but then Subhash spoilt the home party.
Press Trust of India
