Defending champions Minerva Punjab FC played their 2nd match of the Hero Junior League group against Aizawl FC at Barrackpore Stadium, Kolkata.

Aizawl FC started the first half strongly with scoring their first goal in the 2nd minute only. Minerva started to build after conceding early but were unlucky not to convert their chances. Aizawl, on the counter, struck the 2nd goal of the match in the 14th minute to take the score to 2-0. Minerva kept fighting but luck was not on their side as the main striker, Himanshu Jangra was sent off with a 2nd yellow in 44th minute.

Inspite of being two goals and a man down, Minerva Punjab started the 2nd half positively and took control of the game. The constant pressure paid off with Aizawl defender scoring an own goal to take the score to 2-1 in the 50th minute. Minerva continued to attack and Mehson Singh scored the equaliser in the 60th minute to level things at 2-2. Minerva created a loy of chances but failed to score without their main striker Himashu Jangra.

Aizawl used the one man advantage and scored their 3rd goal in 73rd minute and added a fourth in the 88th minute to finish the game off with a score of 4-2 in favour of Aizawl.

With this match, Minerva are placed 2nd on the group table. Aizawl, Minerva Punjab and Stadium Sports Foundation are tied with 3 points each and a goal difference of 1 goal each. Aizwal are currently ahead on goals scored followed by Minerva Punjab and Stadium Sports Foundation.

Stadium Sports Foundation has played only one game and play their 2nd game later in the day against Birachandra Memorial sporting Club.

Minerva next play Stadium Sports Foundationon 24th May 2019 in their last match of the group.

(Minerva Punjab FC)