By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 20: Meghalaya held off a strong Kerala side to grab a point in a thrilling 2-2 draw during their second match of the final round of the Santosh Trophy senior men’s National Football Championship at the Manjeri Payyanad Football Stadium in Kerala, on Wednesday.
M Muhammed Safnad gave Kerala the lead in front of a high-capacity crowd in the 17th minute from close range after Meghalaya’s defence opened up. The hosts were then disallowed a second goal for offside.
In the 40th, Atlanson Kharmaw turned in a beautiful cross that was headed into the back of the net by Kynsaibor Lhuid for Meghalaya’s equaliser.
After the restart, Figo Syndai headed in a second goal and Meghalaya had the lead against the former champions in the 55th minute although that did not last long, as Kerala drew level in the 58th thanks to Muhammed Saheef.
Meghalaya goalkeeper Frolicson Dkhar was awarded the man-of-the-match for his performance. Meghalaya, now with four points after the 3-2 win against Rajasthan on Monday, will next take on West Bengal on Friday at 4pm.
Earlier, a dominant Punjab thrashed Rajasthan 4-0 in their Group A clash. Three second-half strikes which included a brace from substitute Tarun Slathia meant Punjab picked up their first win of the tournament. (PTI)
