Sreenidi Deccan FC held to 1-1 draw by Aizawl FC

Sreenidi Deccan FC were held to a 1-1 draw by Aizawl FC in Matchweek 7 of the Indian Football League at the Deccan Arena. David Castaneda scored in the first half, but a late own goal denied them victory

Hyderabad: Sreenidi Deccan FC played out a 1-1 draw against Aizawl FC in Matchweek 7 of the Indian Football League at the Deccan Arena here on Sunday.

David Castaneda opened the scoring in the 29th minute, while the visitors equalised through an own goal in the 87th minute of the game.

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Head coach Carlos Vaz Pinto made three changes to his starting eleven following the draw against Shillong Lajong FC. After serving his one-match suspension, Lalromawia returned to the side, replacing Lalbiakliana. Striker Paulo Cezar came in for Roly Bonevacia, and Lalthankhuma replaced Pape Gassama.

Sreenidi Deccan FC started the game by enjoying the majority of possession and creating chances from set pieces. The first opportunity came when Lalromawia’s direct free-kick hit the crossbar, and Paulo’s header from the rebound also struck the crossbar before the opposition defence cleared the ball to safety.

In the 29th minute, David Castaneda found space outside the box and struck his effort into the back of the net, giving the Deccan Warriors the lead and marking his maiden goal of the season. Although the Deccan Warriors created a few more chances to double their lead, they were unable to convert, and the score remained 1-0 at half-time.

The second half began in a similar fashion, with the Deccan Warriors enjoying possession and searching for a second goal. Deepak DP came close to finding the net, but his header from a corner went straight into the opposition goalkeeper’s hands.

Despite continued pressure from the hosts, it was in the 87th minute that a deflected header from the opposition’s free-kick found the back of the net, allowing Aizawl FC to equalise. The Deccan Warriors pushed for a winner in the closing minutes but were unable to find the breakthrough, and the match ended 1-1.

Sreenidi Deccan FC will next host Rajasthan United FC on April 12 at the Deccan Arena in Hyderabad.