FATORDA: Chennaiyin FC opened their campaign with a dominant win in the second edition of the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy, securing a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Churchill Brothers FC, at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Sunday.
The two-time Indian Super League (ISL) champions controlled the game from start to finish, with goals from Elson Dias, Wilmar Gil, Gurkirat Singh, and substitute Irfan Yadwad.
Chennaiyin FC drew the first blood in the 9th minute when Elson Dias capitalised on a defensive error by Churchill Brothers. A corner kick from Connor Shields was poorly dealt with by the Churchill Brothers defence and Dias, with quick reflexes, tapped the ball into the net, giving Chennaiyin FC an early lead.
Churchill Brothers, however, responded swiftly. In the 19th minute, a well-executed play saw Stendly Fernandes deliver a precise pass to Lesly Rebello, who in turn set up Kilane Diamande. With poise, Diamande slotted the ball past the Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper, restoring parity and reigniting hopes for the Red Machines.
Chennaiyin FC regained their advantage in the 32nd minute. Connor Shields once again played a pivotal role, delivering a pinpoint cross into the box. Wilmar Gil rose above the Churchill Brothers defenders and headed the ball into the net, making it 2-1.
Just before the halftime whistle, Chennaiyin FC struck again. Laldinpuia’s cross found Gurkirat Singh at the edge of the box, who unleashed a powerful half-volley, leaving the Churchill Brothers goalkeeper with no chance and extending the lead to 3-1.
The second half saw Churchill Brothers attempting to claw their way back into the game, but Chennaiyin FC’s defence remained firm. The introduction of Vincy Barretto and Irfan Yadwad in the 60th minute, added fresh energy to Chennaiyin FC’s attack. In the 65th minute, the substitution paid dividends as Barretto delivered a low cross into the box, which Yadwad confidently tapped in, sealing the victory with a fourth goal.
Despite Churchill Brothers’ continued efforts to reduce the deficit, Chennaiyin FC’s defence, marshalled by their experienced backline, held firm to secure a well-deserved win. The victory not only earned Chennaiyin FC three points but also a significant morale boost as they continue to build momentum in the tournament.
