Army XI wins in 2nd qtr of Sikkim CM’s Gold Cup

Namchi,Nov17: Delhi National, one of the strong contenders of the ongoing All India Chief Minister’s Chief Minister Gold Cup Football Tournament 2009 was knocked out Monday by the well set team of Army XI (Red). Delhi was defeated by 3-2 in an interestingly contesting match on the day. The second quarter final match was played at Bhaichung Stadium here. Army entered this round after a smooth win over the home team of Sinolchu FC Namchi while it was the first match for Delhi Nationals.
Both the teams played well from the beginning and made a number of attempts in each other’s gold post. The match became contesting when Delhi scored a leading goal before half time. It was scored by Bachhu Dutta (20) of Delhi providing his team a lead of 1-0. Army XI played an attacking game in the second half. They made several attacks and finally at 49th Minute of the match a local boy and product of Namchi Sports Hostel, Santu Subba (18) who at present is playing from Army XI (Red) netted a beautiful goal and equalize the score 1-1.
At 54th minute of the match Army XI player made a fault near the D area for which the Referee gave a free kick which was taken by Birender (14) of Delhi National. The goal keeper of Army XI while saving the free kick crossed the line and the Referee after consultation with lines man declared the goal which was a controversial one. The score board flashed the score 2-1 in favour of Delhi. Army XI did not loose heart and played with a new spirit. At 63rd minutes T.L Kuki (15) beautifully headed a crossed ball. Beating the goal keeper the ball landed in the net. The score was 2-2 amidst huige public cheers. At 73rd minute S. Raleng (10) of Army scored the goal to win the match by 3-2. In the match 4 yellow cards were flashed by the Referee against Army XI.