Last minute goal helps Pune FC collect 3 pts against USFC

GANGTOK, 06 Jan: United Sikkim Football Club [USFC] failed to hold its own against Pune FC in their I-League clash here at Paljor Stadium on Saturday. The home club fought hard and the match looked set to end in a 1-1 draw but a goal by Pune FC in the dying minutes turned the tables.
United Sikkim failed to convert more than 13 opportunities in this crucial match, success in any one of which would have given them a second win on home ground. That said, USFC players under their new coach Nathan Hall, fought well and aggressive.
Pune FC’s Arata Izumi registered the first goal for his club in the 23rd minute and the USFC equalizer came in the 63rd minute off the boots of Nima Tamang. The match was edging towards a draw when in the additional injury time, Sudan national and Pune FC striker James Moga scored the winning goal with a stunning free kick.
Pune FC captain, Douhou Pierre, was adjudged the Man of the Match.
After the match, Pune FC Coach, Derrick Pereira said that the home club gave a “top fight” but luck favoured them with the last minute goal to win three solid points to equalize the tally of 29 points with League leaders Dempo.
He also complimented Bhaichung Bhutia for his efforts and expressed hope that the United Sikkim will register a win to remain in the I-League for the next session. However, he added that USFC’s inexperience allowed USFC a win on Saturday.
Nathan Hall, the USFC Coach said that although they dominated the whole game, they could not score enough.
“The boys played well but luck did not favour us in the last minutes”, said Mr Hall after the match. He admitted that Pune FC was the better side and expressed hope that his boys will bounce back in the remaining matches.
Further stating that his team has the ability to match the top I-League teams, he hinted at the lack of the main striker in the team for the loss. The opportunities created could not be capitalized and hopefully within the next fifteen days, our star striker will be there to play in the remaining matches, added Mr Hall.
On inexperience being the possible cause behind the loss, he said that although most of his players are new faces they are equally competent senior players and have played well in all the matches till now.
USFC will take on Mumbai FC next on 09 January.