I-league: Churchill get a point, Real Kashmir hearts

Srinagar, Nov 6:The maiden I-league encounter in Kashmir Tuesday carried a desirable pull as thousands poured in at Astro Turf here to watch a cliff hanger of a game between Real Kashmir FC and Churchill Brothers which ended in a goalless draw.

RKFC Midfielder Danish Farooq bagged first hero of the match title. He showcased exceptional intensity during the game.

The hosts tried to score but they were denied by the woodwork twice in the match. Both the sides established a cut-throat start and looked to dominate the midfield. The first major chance fell for Danish Farooq but the midfielder was denied by the crossbar. A brilliant cross from Brian Mascarenhas was guided towards the goal by Farooq, who managed to beat the goalie but couldn’t make through the post.

Churchill Brothers had their goalkeeper James Kithan sent off just before half-time. But they held the nerves and even had a last chance through a DawdaVessay cross to pull off the game. They remain unbeaten in their first three games, all of them away from home.

Churchill got the first sight of goal as IsrailGurung delivered an a near-perfect cross from the left flank but Lamgoulen Gou Hangshing failed to guide it into the net, ending the first half goalless.

Kashmir upped their ante in the second half but their strategy did not result fruitful as Goa’s NenadNovakovic kept Gnohere Krizo under close watch.

Krizo did hit the bar once in the 65th minute after breaking into the box, this time from the left and unleashing a wonderful right-footed curler. The other opportunity was when Katebe and Danish Farooq played a 1-2 on the right and the latter’s shot from inside the box was saved by Vicky in the Churchill goal.

Churchill had the last chance of the game when DawdaCessay got onto a free-kick halfway between the goal and the right corner flag. His floater was good but could not find the head of a Churchill player.

Churchill now have three points from their three draws while Real Kashmir have picked up their fourth point after their second game.

Real Kashmir will now take on Neroca on November 11, while Churchill will take on ShillongLajong on November 15.