AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: After winning all three games in Dubai, the India U-16 team began the Qatar leg of their exposure tour with a 2-0 win over Aspire Club U-16. Goals from Bekey Oram and Rohit Danu in either side of half-time secured victory for India.

India began the match on a positive note with lion’s share of the possession but the first real opportunity of the match went to the home side in the 11^th minute. Niraj Kumar stood tall as he made the save to keep parity. Lalrokima had a golden chance to take the lead in the 15^th minute but his shot missed narrowly.

Gurkirat made a run towards the box but his effort was kept out by the keeper in the 20^th minute. Niraj Kumar was soon called into action as he pulled off a stunning save to India. India’s midfield continued to dominate as Rohit Danu saw his shot just missing the target.

Finally, the much deserved goal arrived in the 31^st minute with Bekey Oram putting it past the keeper from Ricky’s ball. Rohit Danu almost doubled India’s lead in the 35^th but his shot hit crossbar as India went into half-time with a 1-0 lead.

The second half too followed a pattern similar to that of the first with India asserting their dominance over the midfield. Rohit Danu was once again at the forefront with an attempt on the goal but unfortunately for him it was saved by the goalie.

The match slowed down considerably with no team being able to stitch together a proper attack until the game sprang back to life in the 74^th minute. Givson providing the perfect weighted through ball for Rohit Danu to double the lead and make 2-0 for India.

India U-16: Niraj (GK), Samir, Thoiba, Ahammed, Gurkirat, Ricky, Sailo (Vikram 62’), Givson, Bekey, Lalrokima (Ridge Melvin 50’), Rohit Danu (C)