By Minerva Academy FC Media

IMPHAL: Minerva Academy FC held the home side NEROCA FC to a goalless draw in their Second Division League opener at the Khuman Lampak Stadium today.

Both the teams have come out with all guns blazing in their pursuit of the all-important three points. Minerva Academy FC, on the other hand, had two players, Sukhwinder Singh and Timothy Munmun Lugun, who were part of the I-League before donning the Minerva Academy FC jersey.

With close to 9,000 crowds cheering, the match started on a high tempo as both the team looked to take the lead. NEROCA FC were the first to have a sniff at the goal when a David Ngaihte cross was pumped pass the far post by Emmanuel.

But Minerva responded immediately with Munmun doing the hard work on the flank. His through ball for Sukhwinder was well controlled but the shot was not enough to trouble the goalkeeper Lalit Thapa.

Both the teams had a direct approach to the game and constantly exchange attacks in their quest to take the lead. The wingers displayed their speed and created lots of chances but the forwards failed to capitalise on those as the match went into the break with minimal difference between them.

The Second half started on the same way and Neroca unleashed a flurry of attacks as they were under more pressure to win at home. Seikhohao Tuboi was introduced to add more fluidity in the attacking third. Tuboi and David combined well and troubled the Minerva’s defence to an extent but they couldn’t beat the young Arshdeep Singh at the goal. Arshdeep made some fantastic saves to keep Minerva on the hunt.

Towards the fag end, Minerva went all out on the attack. On one occasion, Sajandeep and Bala played some fine one-touch game and beautifully set up the on-rushing Manvir Singh, but the youngster failed to hit the target.

At the end of the regulation time, both the potential champions of the 2nd Division failed to score and were forced to split points.

“We came for 3 points but unfortunately, we have to return with just one,” said coach Surinder Singh after the match.

“We played very well and I am happy with my boys’ performance. We fought hard and never allowed Neroca to dominate us. In fact, there were instances where we had the upper hand,” coach Surinder added.

Minerva Academy FC are slated to play against Mohammedan Sporting Club in Kolkata on April 3, 2016.