Panaji: The FC Goa Developmental Team was held to a 1-1 draw today at the Corporation Stadium in Thrissur, Kerala by FC Kerala. The goals in the game came early on as both sides looked to make an early mark.
It was the young Gaurs who got off the mark first when Papuia gave them the lead. A cross put in from a free-kick was initially cleared, but Leander D’Cunha was able to get to the ball first before putting in a ball at the far post where Papuia was unmarked. The defender took a touch before calmly slotting the ball into the back of the net.
FC Kerala stormed back to equalise in the 25th minute thanks to a strike from Koudognon Brohiri Cyrille. The goal, however, brought over a gruesome moment as FC Goa keeper Dylan D’Silva collided with the goal scorer and had to be taken off due to a deep cut on his head leading to profuse bleeding.
The hosts looked to make the most of the momentum and nearly did so in the latter moments of the first half.
A handball from Tulunga in the Gaurs’ penalty box saw the referee point to the penalty spot. The hosts, though, weren’t able to make the most of the situation and failed to convert from the spot, missing the target all together.
A cagy affair in the second half meant the game ended in a stalemate with no shots on target. Lalawmpuia looked spry but saw his shots blocking. The young Gaurs had the majority of the possession, but couldn’t make the most of it.
The draw sees FC Goa eke out 4 points from their 3 games in the tournament, currently in 4th spot in Group C. They next take on ARA FC at the Bambolim Stadium in the 2nd Division League. The game is scheduled for a 2 pm kickoff on 18th February, 2020.