Fed Cup 2016 SF: Aizawl FC makes history reaching the final on away goal margin

Aizawl FC 2-2Sporting Clube de Goa. Image Source: File Pic
Aizawl FC 2-2 Sporting Clube de Goa. Image Source: File Pic

Internet Desk: Relegated I-League side Aizawl FC progressed to the final of the 2016 Federation Cup as they held Sporting Clube de Goa 2-2 away at the Fatorda Stadium on Sunday. With the first leg scoreless, the draw was enough for Jahar Das’ men as they won the tie on the away goals rule.

Joel Sunday Ayeni (37′) opened the scoring and then Sumeet Passi (45+2′) managed to equalise right on the stroke of half time. Lalchhawnkima (60′) converted from the penalty spot, to provide the lead after half time but substitute Glan Martins (80′) came on late to equalize. However, Aizawl FC skipper David Lalrinmuana was given the marching orders and as a consequence, will miss the all important final on Saturday.

The deadlock of the tie was broken by Joel Sunday Ayeni. Running past his markertowards the through ball from his midfield, The Nigerian slotted the ball past Arindam Bhattacharya before Fulganco Cardozo tried to bring him down inside the box.

However, Youngster Sumeet Passi struck for the visitors just before the half time break. Pratesh Shirodkar’s flagkick fell into the Loveday’s head who directed towards Sumeet Passi infornt. The height advantage came into play as the striker got the better of the defender to head it into the net.

The visitors were awarded with a penalty in the 58th minute. Skipper David Lalrinmuana was felled down by Pratesh Shirodkar inside the box as he was on course to receive a square pass from Alfred Jaryan.

Lalchhawnkima stepped up and successfully converted from the twelve yard spot. Arindam Bhattacharya dived the right way but his shot was powerful, sending the Highlanders leading on aggregate.

Super substitute Glan Martins came on in the last 15 minutes to score the equaliser. A freekick from 30 yards taken by Loveday was deflected off of the wall but Subhasihs Bose had the presence of mind to drop it in goalwards. Poirei Soram came out with a clearance from a dive but his defenders were sloe to react. Martins was quick and he deposited the loose ball into the empty net.

With the equaliser, the Goan side still were a goal less to assure them a place in the final as the opponents were equal on away goals. Aizawl skipper David Lalrinmuana was awarded his second yellow card and given his marching orders late into injury time.

Aizawl completed the unthinkable as they sealed a spot in the Federation Cup final as they meet Mohun Bagan is six days time in Guwahati.