Churchill held, meet E Bengal
HERALD REPORTER
VASCO, SEPT 25
Churchill Brothers made it to the semi-finals of 32nd Federation Cup as they held Chirag United goalless in the final league match at Tilak Maidan, here Saturday.
Churchill will now lock horns with East Bengal in the first semi-final to be played on September 29.
The draw saw both teams finishing on five points each, but Churchill topped the group due to their superior goal difference of plus four to Chirag’s plus one.
Churchill were saved in the 15th minute by goalkeeper Lalit Thapa who acrobatically saved a volley from Chirag striker Josimar Da Silva Martins.
Chirag had a charmed life in the 34th minute as following a coordinated move between Zakeer Mundampara and Odafe, Koko Sakibo’s shot kissed the post on its way out.
Soon after, Odafa found the net but the assistant referee had raised the flag for an off-side.
Jerry Zirsanga sent shock waves in Churchill’s camp with a solo effort, but once again goalkeeper Lalit Thapa saved a power packed shot. Later, Chika Wali’s long shot was headed back by Rafique to well positioned Gourang Biswas, whose shot was collected by the goalkeeper.
In injury time, Elijah Junior Obagbemiro sent a hot shot which was saved by the Churchill goalkeeper.
Churchill Brothers (5), Chirag United (5), Sesa Football Academy (2), Viva Kerala (2). Earlier, in an inconsequential match, Sesa Football Academy and Vivia Kerala played a goalless draw.
