I-League : NEROCA climbs up the ladder, Aizawl negotiate young Arrows

Manipuri side NEROCA F.C. defeated Goan side Churchill Brothers S.C. by 2-1 at the Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal on Saturday afternoon. The home team started strongly as Japanese playmaker Katsumi Yusa gave NEROCA the lead within minutes from the start, thereby entering into the record books as the fastest goalscorer in I-League history. Khalid Aucho levelled it for his side in the first half, however Katsumi Yusa returned back to complete his brace to see his side get all three points. In the process, Churchill Bros. undefeated run came to an end. The Orange Brigade from Manipur swapped positions on the points table with the visitors claiming second position while the latter dropped to third.

Earlier on Friday, Aizawl FC played out a goalless draw against AIFF developmental side Indian Arrows played at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The Mizo side had more of the possession but the young Arrows showed more intent to break inside the Aizawl half hoping to score. Aizawl FC had their moments but failed miserably to convert their chances each time. Both sides are now languishing at the bottom of the points table having managed just one win a piece.