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RAIA: Gokulam Kerala FC edged past Dempo SC with a 1-0 victory in a closely contested AIFF I-League match, at the Nehru stadium, Fatorda, on Tuesday.
The match began with high intensity as Dempo SC’s Kapil Hoble delivered a precise cross to Shubham Rawat in the 6th minute. Rawat’s shot, however, was expertly pushed to safety by Gokulam Kerala FC’s goalkeeper, Shibin Raj Kunniyl.
Just five minutes later, Gokulam’s Adama Niane came close to breaking the deadlock, but his powerful strike struck the goalpost and rebounded back into play.
In the 25th minute, Niane’s effort was once again denied, this time by Dempo SC’s goalkeeper, Ashish Sebi, who made a fine save to keep the scores level. Dempo’s Shubham Rawat then tested Kunniyl again in the 44th minute, but the Gokulam custodian was equal to the challenge, ensuring the first half ended goalless.
The second half saw both teams creating opportunities. From the 53rd to the 56th minute, Gokulam’s Saurab Mondal missed several chances, including one set up by Sinisa Stansavic. Shortly after, Dempo’s Shubham Rawat attempted to outmanoeuvre Kunniyl in the 60th minute, but the Gokulam keeper displayed excellent composure to avert the danger.
The decisive moment came in the 87th minute when Gokulam Kerala’s Abhishek K found the back of the net with a clinical finish, giving his team the crucial lead. Dempo SC fought hard to equalise, but Laximanrao Rane and Nestor Dias squandered late opportunities, with Dias missing a golden chance in injury time.
The victory reinforced Gokulam Kerala FC’s resilience, with their goalkeeper Shibin Raj Kunniyl delivering a standout performance to secure the clean sheet.
