THE BLOG BY CPD FOOTBALL | The World of Indian football and beyond by Chris Punnakkattu Daniel

United Sikkim begin campaign in style

United Sikkim FC vs ONGC

United Sikkim FC vs ONGC

United Sikkim Football Club defeated ONGC 3-2 as they kicked-off their campaign in the Federation Cup at the Mohun Bagan ground. Daniel, Sushil Kumar Singh and Babatunde scored for the winners while ONGC pulled back through Jagdish Modi and Naresh.

The Sikkim club, owned by Baichung Bhutia, began on a strong note finding their mark in the very third minute through Daniel Bidemi.

But much against the run of play, ONGC restored parity in the 17th minute when Jagdish Modi latched on to a loose ball and volleyed home.

Stung by the reverse, USFC surged into the lead within three minutes. Off a counter-attack, Sushil Kumar headed into the cross-piece but Babatunde was alert enough to tap in the rebound.

Changing over, Sushil made amends for the earlier goof-up making it 3-1 for his team.

ONGC went all out in the attack and Naresh converted from the spot in the 90th minute. The penalty was awarded after Kenistan was brought down inside the box.

USFC Coach Stanley Rozario said his team needs some time to reach their peak. “The quality in our side is unmatched. We were unlucky to qualification for the I-League. But this time our side is even better,” he stressed.

USFC next play Royal Wahingdoh on Sunday while ONGC lock horns with Southern Samity the same day.

.

Wining start for Wahingdoh
In the other match of the day, Southern Samity failed to cash in on their home advantage when they went down to Royal Wahingdoh 1-0. Bhoy Singh scored the winner in the 45th minute.

(AIFF Press Release)