Ranchi, July 26: Raynier Fernandes marked his Jamshedpur FC debut in sensational fashion with a hat-trick as the Men of Steel cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over Sri Lankan side Defenders FC in their opening Group C fixture of the 135th Durand Cup at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium on Sunday.
The victory was significant in more ways than one. It marked Jamshedpur FC's first-ever competitive match and first victory in Ranchi, while three academy players , Lawmsangzuala, Shagolsem Rashithoi Meetei and Alvin Eshaan Khyriem made their senior debuts.
Jamshedpur FC got off to a dream start, taking the lead in just the fourth minute. Mohammed Sanan delivered an inviting cross into the box, which Raynier Fernandes calmly converted from close range to hand the Men of Steel an early advantage.
Just two minutes later, the duo combined again. Sanan turned provider for the second time, this time delivering a low cross across the face of goal for Raynier to slot home and double Jamshedpur FC's lead.
The Men of Steel continued to dominate possession and dictate proceedings, pinning the Sri Lankan outfit inside their own half with wave after wave of attacks.
Their superiority was rewarded again when another debutant, Aman C.K. produced a moment of individual brilliance. Collecting the ball on the edge of the penalty area, the Kerala winger dribbled past a couple of defenders before calmly finding the back of the net to make it 3-0.
Jamshedpur FC nearly added another in the 32nd minute when Pratik Chaudhari rose highest to meet a cross, but his powerful header sailed narrowly over the crossbar.
The fourth goal arrived six minutes before the break. Aman once again played a pivotal role, delivering a dangerous low cross into the six-yard box, where fellow debutant Devendra Dhaku Murgaokar arrived to apply the finishing touch at the near post.
Leading 4-0 at the interval, Jamshedpur FC continued to control the contest after the restart despite Defenders FC adopting a more compact defensive approach. The Men of Steel patiently moved the ball around and continued to create opportunities while limiting the visitors' attacking threat.
Head Coach Kaizad Ambapardiwala then handed senior debuts to academy graduates Lawmsangzuala, Shagolsem Rashithoi Meetei and Alvin Eshaan Khyriem, all of whom settled into the game confidently.
It was Lawmsangzuala who played a key role in Jamshedpur FC's fifth goal. His low effort forced the Defenders FC goalkeeper into a fumble, allowing Raynier to react quickest and complete his hat-trick with a simple finish.
Jharkhand's pride and Ranchi homeboy Nikhil Barla also played for the very first time among his home city fans. Fans were also excited to see him entering the pitch and he was welcomed with a high energy applause making it even more special.
The comprehensive victory ensured a dream start to Kaizad Ambapardiwala's tenure as head coach in the Durand Cup and handed Jamshedpur FC three valuable points in Group C.
The Men of Steel will now turn their attention to their second group-stage fixture against Sporting Club Delhi on August 4 at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi.
