Sunday, Nov 17, 2024 10:45 [IST]
Last Update: Sunday, Nov 17, 2024 05:12 [IST]
GANGTOK,: Gokulam FC Kerala secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Bhutan club Transport United FC on Saturday to reach the semi-final of the 40th Governor’s Gold Cup football tournament.
The Bhutan club had to blame themselves for their early exit as they squandered a penalty and conceded an own goal when they were leading by one goal in second half. Kinga Wangchuk had converted first penalty with ease in the 58th minute to make it 1-0 in favour of the Bhutan club.
After few minutes, Transport United was awarded another penalty but another Bhutanese player came to take the shot. His poorly taken spot kick was easily saved by Gokulam FC goalkeeper Sujith M which handed a lifeline for the Kerala team.
With luck on their side, Gokulam FC seized the momentum and piled pressure in their rival’s box. Their persistence paid off in the 80th minute as Bhutan club defender Kinzang Topden unfortunately miscued a clearance into his own net. The match was locked in 1-1.
Nine minutes later, Bibin Boban took control of a loose ball outside the Transport United box and hit a thunderous strike to give Gokulam FC the lead. The Kerala team then defended its 2-1 lead comfortably to see out the match on a winning note. They became the first side to enter the semi-final round of the tournament.
Bibin was adjudged the ‘man of the match’.
The second quarterfinal match will be played on Sunday afternoon where local side Gangtok Himalayan SC takes on KDN FC from Malaysia.
Today’s Match
Gangtok Himalayan SC v/s KDN FC, Malaysia
Peep! 2 pm
