GANGTOK, OCT 7: Sikkim Aakraman Sporting Club kept its Governor’s Gold Cup campaign alive in dramatic fashion, edging past Odisha XI 5-3 on penalties to book a place in the next round of the prestigious All India Governor’s Gold Cup Football Tournament at Paljor Stadium.
The home side dominated proceedings for much of the match but was unable to turn its territorial advantage into goals. Despite creating opportunities, Sikkim Aakraman SC remained frustrated in front of the Odisha goal as the score stayed 0-0 after 90 minutes.
A golden opportunity came Sikkim Aakraman’s way in the 80th minute when the home side was awarded a penalty. However, the chance went begging, leaving the match delicately poised for a dramatic finish.
Making their first appearance in the Governor’s Gold Cup, Odisha XI showed remarkable resilience. Playing at high altitude for the first time, the visitors relied on a disciplined defensive approach and quick counter-attacks. Their goalkeeper was particularly impressive, making a string of important saves and keeping Odisha XI in the contest throughout regulation time.
With neither side able to break the deadlock, the match was eventually decided from the penalty spot.
Sikkim Aakraman SC held its nerve to win the shootout 5-3, with goalkeeper Nimdup Lepcha emerging as the hero of the evening. Lepcha produced the decisive moment by saving one of Odisha XI’s penalties, clearing the way for the home side to march into the next round.
The victory sets up an exciting clash for Sikkim Aakraman SC, which will face East Bengal FC on October 11.
Meanwhile, Sikkim League champions Black Eagle FT will take on against Banaras FC, Baghpat, on October 8.
अनलाइन् खबर पत्रिका तथ्य जाँच र आचारसंहिता प्रतिवेदन:
यो सामग्री हाम्रा सम्पादक टोलीद्वारा तथ्य प्रमाणीकरण र प्रेस काउन्सिल अफ इन्डिया आचारसंहिता बमोजिम प्रकाशित गरिएको हो।
