Gokulam Kerala FC’s remarkable run continued in the Hero Indian Women’s League (IWL), as it registered its fourth successive win defeating Panjim Footballers 2-0 on Saturday.
India internationals Sanju and Anju Tamang were on target for Gokulam, but it was teenage sensation Manisha who controlled the midfield and stole the show.
The Kerala side was without its charismatic captain Dalima Chhibber who had suffered a knock in the previous game. However, Sanju, who had the captain’s armband, responded well. After receiving a pass from the right, she unleashed a drive into the bottom corner.
In the second half, Manisha played a delicate through ball to Anju, who had just the ’keeper to beat.
The win took Gokulam a step closer to the semifinal spot. It now has 12 points from four matches.
In the other contest, Hans Women FC shocked defending champion Rising Student Club 2-1. Hans’ Nigerian midfielder Rita Casia was the star, orchestrating the moves and scoring with a scorcher from long range.
Rising Student started well, launching quite a few attacks. Krishna Barick had an opportunity to put the team in front. However, her shot was saved by Hans ’keeper Vanshika Rana.
Hans picked up pace in the second half, and Rita found the target from around 25 yards out, placing the ball perfectly in the top corner and giving Rising Student goalkeeper Rani Bhowmick no chance.
Hans doubled the lead soon when Anushka Samuel broke free and slipped the ball past Bhowmick.
Sradhanjali Panda scored in injury time for Rising Student, but it was too little, too late.
The results: Gokulam Kerala FC 2 (Sanju 20, Anju 79) bt Panjim Footballers 0.
Hans Women FC 2 (Rita Casia 48, Anushka Samuel 67) bt Rising Student Club 1 (Sradhanjali 90+1).
