IMPHAL, July 28: TRAU FC and NEROCA FC shared spoils in a fiercely contested goalless Imphal Derby in the Durand Cup here on Tuesday. Both sides created several promising chances but failed to to find the breakthrough at the packed Khuman Lampak Main Stadium.
Both coaches opted for a balanced 4-2-3-1 formation, signalling an intent to maintain defensive solidity while posing a threat on the counterattack. TRAU FC head coach Thangjam Saran Singh has built his side around a strong foreign spine, with Senegalese defender Seila Toure marshalling the backline, Ugandan midfielder Adriko Rogers controlling the midfield, and Liberian striker Ghanefo Ansumana Kromah leading the attack. Meanwhile, NEROCA FC head coach Yumnam Raju Mangang has also entrusted his overseas players with key roles, deploying Ghanaian defender Ben Nash Quansh to anchor the defence and Ghanaian forward Charles Teiko Folley as the focal point of the attack, while relying on a disciplined midfield to provide balance and creativity.
TRAU FC nearly found the breakthrough moments later from a corner of their own. Defender Seila Toure rose highest to meet the delivery with a firm header, but his effort crashed against the post, leaving the NEROCA defence relieved as both sides continued to search for the opening goal.
TRAU FC came close to breaking the deadlock when Afridi Buyamayum burst through the middle before unleashing a powerful long-range effort that flashed narrowly wide of the post.
The remainder of the first half saw both teams continue to attack with intent, creating chances through counter-attacks, set-pieces and sustained spells of possession. Despite a series of fouls and Imphal Derby Ends in Stalemate Before a Packed Khuman Lampak Crowd
NEROCA FC began the second half on the front foot and nearly took the lead when Lambalmayum Hemba Meetei delivered an inviting cross from the right for Charles Teiko Folley, whose powerful header was brilliantly saved by TRAU FC goalkeeper Sapam Nongpoknganba Singh. The skipper showed excellent reflexes and kept his eyes firmly on the ball to pull off a fine save.
NEROCA FC squandered another golden opportunity when substitute Ngathem Imarson Meitei produced a skilful run down the left flank before delivering a precise pass into the box for Sridarth Nongmeikapam. Sridarth's first-time effort was well saved by the TRAU goalkeeper, and although the rebound fell back to him, he was unable to keep his follow-up attempt on target as the ball went behind for a goal kick.
TRAU FC were reduced to 10 men when Adriko Rogers was shown a second yellow card, followed by a red, after a heated exchange with the referee. The dismissal handed NEROCA FC a numerical advantage for the remainder of the contest.
The closing stages belonged almost entirely to NEROCA FC as they relentlessly pushed forward in search of a winner, while TRAU FC remained resolute in defence despite playing with ten men.
PHOTO CAPTION: Action from the match between TRAU and NEROCA FC