Friday, Apr 26, 2024 | Last Update : 04:44 AM IST
ISL Season 3: Romeo strike wins it for Goa
Goa fielded just 2 overseas players and the hosts were under pressure right from the start.
New Delhi: FC Goa struck in the fourth minute of added time to floor NorthEast United FC 2-1 for their first win at home in the Hero Indian Super League in Fatorda on Friday.
The hosts trailed after Seityasen Singh’s 49th minute goal for NorthEast United but equalised through Robin Singh in the 61st minute. Goa were then reduced to 10 men after Sahil Tavora was sent off but Romeo Fernandes handed the hosts full points with his dramatic late winner.
It was Goa’s first win at home after three defeats in a row and gave them 10 points from as many games. Inferior goal difference means they will continue to be at the bottom despite the same points as Chennaiyin FC and NorthEast United.
Goa fielded just two overseas players due to suspension and injury and the hosts were under pressure right from the start. Katsumi Yusa floated a corner-kick but Nicolas Velez’s tap from close rnage was saved by goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani.
Katsumi then tried his luck with a long-range free-kick which Kattimani parried away to safety and then Rowlin Borges failed to keep his open header on target after Seityasen Singh had whipped in a perfect cross.
The Highlanders managed to take the lead in the 49th minute. A corner from Katsumi was headed away by Raju Gaikwad but only till Seityasen, who beat a defender and then took a powerful shot which deflected off Trindade into the Goa goal.
Goa equalised against the run of play. A long ball from Trindade saw Romeo race ahead and get the better of Holicharan Narzary inside the danger zone. He then kept his cool to lay the ball for Robin who finished with ease.
Goa also had the last laugh after Romeo’s breakaway goal.
