Royal Wahingdoh beat Churchill Brothers in 33rd Federation Cup

In a match marred by a free-for-all, Royal Wahingdoh got the better of Churchill Brothers 2-1 to strengthen their march to semifinals in the 33rd Federation Cup football at Shiv Chhatrapati sports complex in Balewadi on Monday.

The young side exposed chinks in their rival’s defence and scored once in each session to silence those who had been calling them minnows. Skipper Seityasen Singh scored in the 29th minute while Jackichand Singh struck in the 53rd. Henry Rebienot (72nd) reduced the margin for Churchill.

The drama began in the 75th minute when Churchill’s substitute Bineesh Balan fell on the ball and held on to it. Royal’s striker H Malsawmtlunga (Mala) tried to kick the ball, which was still being held by Bineesh. But the Churchill substitute didn’t release it.

This started a free-for-all between players of both the sides.

Churchill Brothers’ skipper Roberto Silva ran close and appeared like he was trying to separate the fighting players. However, Roberto started beating Zosang Kama and he only stopped when the referees interfered. As the things cooled, referee Amjad Khan called Roberto and flashed a red card. The game was held up for over eight minutes. Silva had to leave the field.

In another incident, fourth referee Ajit Meetei from Manipur added 15 minutes to the injury time. This could be a record in this tournament. The other longest injury time was 11 minutes in an encounter between Mahindra’s and East Bengal in 2007 in Ludhiana.

This inexperienced side from Meghalaya proved that they can beat their big brothers in Indian football. First, it was Mohun Bagan and now, Churchill brothers with identical margins (2-1). “We are playing according to the plan and a bit of luck is also on our side,” said Royal’s coach Carlton Chapman. Churchill coach Manuel Gomes was not happy with the officials’ decision but he was sporting as he said it is football and one has to win.