U-18 I-League: RUFC hold Royals to a goalless draw

SHILLONG: Royal Wahingdoh FC and Rangdajied United played out a goalless draw in a U-18 I-League Shillong-Guwahati Zone fixture at the MFA Ground here on Monday. The Royals, who came to the tie on the back of a 5-1 demolition of Lajong, were upbeat from the outset but could not execute the numerous chances produced during the course of the game. Meanwhile, credit also goes to RWFC U-18 goalkeeper Nimdup Lepcha who made a brilliant save to deny a penalty shot taken by the opponents. Earlier, RWFC’s first real chance of the match came moments after the 20th minute when last game’s hero Sirandeep Moran’s lofted shot was brilliantly saved by the rival custodian at goalmouth. Meanwhile, a contentious handball inside the box provided a penalty to RUFC. What looked like a sure shot goal turned out to be a nightmare for the opponents as Lepcha dived to his right to deny the striker much to the delight of the RWFC bench. Rangdajied too were guilty of squandering opportunities upfront despite putting up a spirited show for most part of the first half. Crossing over a Phrangki Buam shot from the right banged into the crossbar thus adding to what was turning out to be an unlucky outing for the Royals. A few more chances went begging for both sides as the game ended in a goalless draw.