Main man: Rishad scored the equaliser for Gokulam.
| Photo Credit: K. Ragesh
Gokulam FC’s opening match at home wasn’t easy as Aizawl FC stretched the Malabarians to force a 1-1 draw at the EMS Corporation stadium here on Tuesday.
The visiting side went ahead in the 13th minute as Gokulam defended poorly and allowed the unmarked Hriata to nod in the corner kick taken by Biakdika.
The opening Aizawl goal was followed by a positive riposte from Gokulam.
The Spaniard Labeledo combined well with Uruguayan Chaves Garica on the right flank but the threat levels remained low as Gokulam’s Mali striker Adama Niane repeatedly fumbled with the ball and allowed Aizawl defenders to clear away the balls to safety.
The equaliser came in the first minute of stoppage time and through the first long ranger tried by Gokulam in the match. Rishad’s left-footed volley from top of the box beat the diving Aizawl goalkeeper Ramchhana and crashed into the top corner of the net.
The later part of the contest witnessed some fine end-to-end action but the winning goal remained elusive for both sides.
The result:
Aizawl 1 (Hriata 13) drew with Gokulam FC 1 (Rishad 45+1).
Published – December 03, 2024 11:02 pm IST
