I-League 2: Sporting Clube de Goa denied first away win by late equaliser

PANAJI
A stoppage-time equaliser denied Sporting Clube de Goa their first away victory as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Sports Academy Tirur in an AIFF I-League 2 clash at Payyanad Stadium.

Despite taking an early lead through Kunal Kundaikar and controlling large phases of the game, Sporting had to settle for a point after conceding in the dying moments.

Coming into the game with momentum after their recent win, Sporting Clube were eager to break their away-day blues. The team started strongly, displaying composure in possession and pressing high up the pitch. Their efforts paid off in the 42nd minute when Samuel Costa’s precise pass found Kunal Kundaikar, who controlled the ball expertly before firing home to give the visitors the lead.

Sporting’s defensive unit, comprising Kunal Kundaikar, Sairuat Kima, Joyner Lourenco, and Myron Fernandes, held firm as goalkeeper Abhimanyu Singh marshalled the backline with confidence. The midfield trio of Samuel Costa, Naocha Singh, and Sushil Meitei worked tirelessly to disrupt the opposition’s play while Dattaraj Gaonkar provided additional support in attack. Up front, Doyal Alves and Ronaldo Oliveira constantly tested the Sports Academy Tirur defence, seeking to extend Sporting’s advantage.

As the match progressed, Sporting Clube de Goa continued to dictate the tempo, holding their defensive shape and frustrating the hosts. However, the home side found a lifeline deep into stoppage time. A late corner kick saw Abdul rise above the defence to meet the ball with a powerful header, which deflected off Joyner Lourenco and rolled past Abhimanyu Singh, levelling the score at the death.

The draw sees both teams move to 11 points, keeping the competition tight in the standings. Sporting Clube de Goa will now turn their focus to their next challenge – a crucial home fixture against FC Bengaluru United at Bambolim Stadium on March 7. The team will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage and return to winning ways.

SCOREBOX: SA Tirur 1 (Abdul Hannan 96') drew with Sporting Clube de Goa 1 (Kunal Kundaikar 43')