By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Meghalaya Police Football Team fought hard to hold Nigeria XI to a 1-1 draw in the quarter-final league match of the 22nd All India Meghalaya Invitation Football Tournament played at First Division Ground, Polo here on Monday.
MLPFT went into the lead as early as the 10th minute when Kitkupar Kharshiing headed the ball into the nets of a free kick taken by Niwan-O-Gatphoh.
The Nigerian players shot back with an attacking brand of football as they troubled the MLPFT defence for rest of the first half. All credit to the local defenders who kept the dominating opponents at bay.
After the break, the team from Nigeria came out all blazing with an increased volley of attacks. To add things to their advantage, MLPFT lost its defender Kyrkhu Marshillong to injury.
The efforts of the Nigerians finally paid off in the 75th minute after Anthony Ogele made a great run into the box and followed it up with a perfect pass to Alhassan Bala who made no mistake to level the score.
The Nigerians could as well have won the match if not for Meghalaya Police goalkeeper Allwyn Patwet, who made some brilliant saves.
On Tuesday, Royal Wahingdoh FC would play Langsning FC.