The north-eastern derby between Neroca and Aizawl ended in a goalless draw with both the teams sharing a point each. The eventful and highly competitive game saw Neroca’s Brazilian defender Eduardo Ferreira receive a red card for a dangerous challenge on Zikahi Dodoz in the 48th minute. Meanwhile, Malemnganba Meitei was adjudged as the Hero of the Match.
Neroca FC, after two continuous defeats to Mohun Bagan and Churchill Brothers, started the game searching for a win to return to title contention. However, it was the visitor Aizawl FC which seemed to press hard to draw first blood but was unable to convert opportunities in its favour.
The Manipuri side, on the other hand, started attacking a little later and was in better control of the game midway into the first half. The host made a few interesting moves and breached into the Aizawl box quite a few times but couldn't find the back of the net owing to a fine performance from the defenders and goalkeeper Lalawmpuia, who ensured that the host does not edge their side out early.
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While the first half ended goalless, it was a highly entertaining 45 minutes, as both the teams displayed good football. The highlight of the first half could be summed up with missed opportunities by Aizawl FC when its Nigerian forward Kareem Nurain’s shot from just outside the box hit the post and thereafter was cleared comfortably by the Neroca defense.
The second half began with Eduardo Ferreira being sent off followed by two back-to-back yellow cards for Sebastian Thangmuansang, in the 50th minute, and Aryn Williams, in the 52nd minute, for rash challenges.
The game, thereafter, saw the visitor pressing hard on Neroca at regular intervals, but couldn’t really make the most of all the opportunities that came its way. While Neroca did make a few attempts to score but nothing was impressive enough to trouble the Aizawl defense.
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