Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
NAGOA: FC Goa Developmental Team began their Hero 2nd Division League campaign with a 0-1 defeat to FC Bengaluru United at Nagoa.
FC Goa went with a similar looking team to the one that has started most Goa Professional League games this season, and the familiarity with one another showed on the pitch early as the Gaurs controlled the game.
Despite the possession, chances were at a premium during the first half, with just one real effort coming in the first 45 minutes.
The chance fell to the feet of Lalnuntluanga Bawitlung, who couldn’t quite get the ball to squeeze into the back of the net from the right-hand side.
There was little attacking intent from Bengaluru United during the first half, but that was largely due to some dogged defending from the pairing of Brian Faria and Papuia.
The game was goalless at the break, but there were enough indications to suggest that the home side could take the lead soon.
The signs may have pointed towards a goal for the Gaurs, but the visitors repelled most of the crosses played in, causing frustration among the FC Goa ranks.
The game opened up slightly as the second half went on, and once spaces developed, Bengaluru United took advantage.
Bengaluru broke on the right flank and a cross into the box found Amey Bhatkal in space, whose first time shot proved too much for Dylan Da Silva to deal with.
The goal sparked the Gaurs into action, and the introduction of Vincy Barretto brought pace to the side, though a goal still eluded them.
The Gaurs tried hard, but were unable to find a way past the opposition defence, resulting in a 0-1 defeat to start their campaign.
