Sporting in Durand final NEW DELHI, Dec. 14. - The superior physique and experience of the Sporting Clube de Goa players proved decisive as the Federation Cup runners-up overwhelmed Assam Rifles 3-0, to book a place in the final of the Durand Cup football tournament here today.
The difference in stamina and physical play was evident as the constables from the paramilitary service were put under tremendous pressure by the team which had three Nigerians in their ranks. The impressive Bebiano Fernandes gave Sporting the lead in the 33rd minute while two late goals from skipper Macpheien O Dudu settled the issue. Assam Rifles suffered a major blow only 15 minutes into the match when their main striker T Akum Ao, who had scored both the goals in the victory over Mahindra United, pulled a hamstring. His absence was crucial as the team, comprising largely of youngsters from northeastern states, lacked teeth in attack and failed to put the opposition defence under any pressure. Sporting started on the offensive and Chidi Edeh shot wide in the first minute itself. Sporting had camped in the rival half and Meetei, Fernandes and the Nigerians gave a torrid time to the rival defenders. - PTI -------------------------------------------------------------------------- | Goa - 2005 Santosh Trophy Champions | | | | Support Soccer Activities at the grassroots in our villages | | Vacationing in Goa this year-end - Carry and distribute Soccer Balls | --------------------------------------------------------------------------
