I-LEAGUE Media Team

SHILLONG: Bharat FC managed to secure one point after a hard fought 1-1 draw against Royal Wahingdoh FC in their Hero I-League match at the JN Stadium here on Saturday.

Royal Wahingdoh FC reclaimed top spot in the Hero I-League standings with a clinical 1-0 win over Bharat FC at the JN Stadium here on Saturday.

A Jackichand Singh strike in the 32nd minute saw the men in yellow take the lead, but Omar Jaaron secured the equaliser with just five minutes left on the clock.

Bekay Bawar had a couple of excellent chances before Jacki’s strike, but the Liberian mistimed both of his efforts. On the opposite side, Subash Singh looked energetic as usual, but could not quite put his best foot forward.

Jackichand, who was part of the Indian national team that beat Nepal 2-0 on aggregate in the recent World Cup qualifying matches, scored the opening goal of the game in the 32nd minute. A cross was delivered straight to him on the left flank and the striker’s aim was true, with the ball ricocheting off the crossbar before crossing the line.

The second half saw both teams start positively and Jacki had another excellent attempt on goal in the 66th minute, with the ball staying away from the net when it hit the post.

From the 75th minute on Bharat FC created more opportunities by bringing on debutant Omar Jarun and Tapan Maity. The never say die attitude of the visiting club paid off with five minutes left of normal time with Omar muscling the ball over the line.

The tension on the field was evident after this with players from both teams scuffling after a foul by a Wahingdoh player. Two red cards were doled out and the two teams battled it out with 10 men each until the final whistle.

Hero of the Match – Jackichand Singh.