Pune FC striker James Moga has scored the fastest goal in the history of the I-League in a league match against United Sikkim FC played at the Balewadi Stadium on Saturday. The 29 year old South Sudanese international hit the target just 14 seconds after the referee blew the kick-off whistle.
But the early goal was not enough to secure Moga’s team a win against the Baichung Bhutia coached “Snow Lions”. USFC levelled the score with a fine 30-yard strike by DG Attivi in the 25th minute, while Safar Sadar put the visitors in the lead just two minutes later.
The North-Eastern side had the chance to increase their lead on various occasions, but they were unable to finish their multiple attempts. Pune FC almost punished the visitors for their poor finishing, but Jeje Lalpekhlua’s attempt from a spot kick was easily saved by the USFC keeper in the 53rd minute.
But James Moga finally found the back of the net with his second goal of the match in the 68th minute. Moga’s powerful right-footed shot from the edge of the box was enough to beat the keeper and to make it 2-2.
USFC player-cum-coach Baichung Bhutia came on for the last five minutes of the game to put some pressure on the PFC defence. One could see the immediate effect of Baichung’s presence like in many games for club and country in the past.
USFC pulled up their socks and managed to secure their first point in the second game under the guidance of interim coach Baichung Bhutia.