Jamshedpur FC bagged their first win in the 131st edition of Durand Cup 2022 as they beat FC Goa 1-0 today at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata. A late goal from Tapan Halder in the 84th minute led the young Men of Steel to bag full points against the Gaurs.
Both sides filled with youthful energy went at each other right from the kick-off. As they looked to open their account early in the game. Jamshedpur started the game with attacking eagerness and their offensive moves based on counterattacks showcased the same.
Jamshedpur got their first chance at the 20th minute when Mawia attempted with a beautiful curler. But the Goa custodian was alert enough to decline. Around the half-hour mark, the men of steel started creating a lot of pressure inside the Goan box testing the man under the stick repeatedly. Despite the multiple opportunities created, the first half of the game ended in a stalemate with the young Men of Steel being the dominant side of the two.
Returning from the break Jamshedpur continued their hunt to grab the lead over the Guars. As they maintained their sharpness across the attacking third. The young Men of Steel continued their dominance in possession. On the other hand, the Gaurs created a couple of chances but failed to pierce through the resilient Jamshedpur defence.
Jamshedpur was awarded a golden opportunity in the form of a spot kick at the edge of the 80th minute. When Mawia was brought down by the FC Goa defenders illegally inside the box. Vinil Poojary stepped up to take the penalty but was held back from scoring by the FC Goa goalkeeper with a diving save.
A couple of minutes later, FC Goa’s Phrangki Buam got in a one-on-one opportunity with Mohit Dhami who was off his line. But Dhami made a brilliant save resisting the forward from finding the net. Jamshedpur finally took the lead in the 84th minute when Tapan Halder scored with a cool composed finish coming off the bench.
Thereafter Jamshedpur maintained the majority of the possession ensuring the lead till the end. As they bagged home full points with a good dominating display. With this victory, the Men of Steel are placed third after three matches in the Durand Cup this season.
