Former Indian Super League champions Mumbai City FC came from behind to register their first win of the season as they defeated Indian Navy 4-1 in their Durand Cup opening fixture. Surprisingly the Indian Navy scored first in a match where everyone expected the Islanders to dominate.
It was Adarsh who broke the deadlock, a couple of minutes away from the halftime whistle. However Mumbai City FC retaliated with a great equalizer as Vikram Pratap Singh came up with a well worked goal right at the stroke of halftime. Hence both sides entered the dressing room on level terms.
The second half was more on expected lines as Mumbai City FC came out all guns blazing with players like Vikram, Bipin and Alberto Noguera all exerting themselves with great moves. However the Indian Navy tried their best to hold on and withstand constant attacks from the Islanders. The game changed after the hour mark as last season’s Golden Ball winner Gregg Stewart scored from the spot whereas super sub Lallianzuala Chhangte exploited theopening in the defence with his explosive pace and mazy runs. The winger scored two goals right at the death as Des Buckingham’s men finished at their dominant best with a statement second half at the Salt Lake Stadium.
The second half was a testament to the fact that Mumbai City can surely dominant large spells of play and that is exactly what they did with Ahmed Jahouh controlling the midfield as the Islanders kept on penetrating in the Indian Navy penalty area. But poorfinishing from Bipin Singh and Vikram Pratap Singh failed to capitalize on clear cut chances.
It was in the 65th minute when they go the breakthrough as Alberto Noguera made a driving run through the Navy backline but as he tried to run clear off the defenders, he was troipped down and penalty was awarded to Mumbai City. The spotkick was calmly converted by Stewart who promises to have a big season ahead for Des Buckingham and his men.
The introduction of Lallianzuala Chhangte made things much easier for the Islanders as he made some great runs down the penalty area and kept the Navy defenders on their toes. After many attack, Chhangte finally made it work when Jahouh found him on the right and he dribbled past a defender before slotting it past the goalkeeper.
A minute later Chhangte was in a good position as a rebound came straight towards him following a foul on Gurkirat Singh. CHhangte calmly netted the fourth goal and ended the game on a superb brace, proving Mumbai City’s squad depth.
Des Buckingham’s men will now face ATK Mohun Bagan on wednesday as Indian Navy will feature against East Bengal on Monday.
