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Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, December 27
RoundGlass Punjab FC (RGPFC) started their I-League campaign by registering a 2-0 win over Rajasthan United FC.
Striker Kurtis Guthrie scored the first goal in the 27th minute and substitute Aphaoba Singh added the second in the last minute of the match. The Punjab outfit showcased a brilliant performance throughout the match. The side got an opportunity to score lead in the 4th minute. However, Ashish Jha hit the crossbar.
The side was again close to score the opener in the 18th minute. However, Guthrie failed to put the ball over the goal line. RGPFC lads finally got their breakthrough as Kurtis kept his nerves calm to post the ball in the nets. The Englishman gently chipped the ball over an onrushing Rajasthan custodian to get the first goal. The side got another chance. However, Shankar’s header from Lalchhuanmawia Fanai cross went inches past the post in the 35th minute.
The side closed the first half with a one goal lead. After the lemon break, RGPFC head coach Ashley Westwood brought on Sumeet Passi and Aakash Sangwan, replacing Rino Anto and Fanai, respectively. Three minutes after the restart, captain Gurtej Singh came close to doubling the lead. However, his header from a corner kick routine missed the target narrowly.
Shankar and Joseba Beitia tried their luck from long range, but could not test the opposing keeper. At the hour mark, Suranjit saw his header saved. Just a minute later, Jha also saw a headed effort tipped over the bar by Vishal. In the 71st minute, Beitia stepped up to take a free kick. However, the shot went out of play after rippling the side netting of the goal.
Minutes later, Kurtis almost doubled his tally as he got his head to a deep cross from Sangwan. However, his shot went wide of the target. Substitute Aphaoba finally made it two for RGPFC in the 90th minute as he reacted smartly to head the ball home from a close range.
RGPFC will now play their next game against Churchill Brothers FC Goa on December 31 at Naihati Stadium.
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