Wangjam on target as Blue Colts edge past Students Union

Bengaluru: Naushad Moosa’s Bengaluru FC rode on a late penalty from Suresh Wangjam to edge 1-0 winners past Students Union in a BDFA Super Division Clash held at the Bengaluru Football Stadium, in Bengaluru, on Saturday.

Handing starts to Jagdeep Singh and Wangjam, the Blue Colts began the game on the offensive with chances falling to Leon Augustine and Advait Shinde in the opening minutes. But Moosa’s side were unable to capitalize on their opportunities from close range, with Jagdeeps’ header that bounced up and over the crossbar late in the first half their best chance of the half.

The second half was a facsimile of the first period as Bengaluru pushed forward in search of the opener with renewed vigour. Moosa made his first change with an hour on the clock as Roshan Singh was withdrawn to be replaced by Bekey Oram, but a goal continued to elude them. Bengaluru kept possession, recycled and made all the right noises in midfield, but the decisive touch in the final third was found wanting.

A second change came in the form of Namgyal Bhutia, who came on to replace Biswa Darjee, but the Blue Colts failed to break through a resolute Students Union backline. Moosa’s final change saw India U15 striker Sridarth Nongmeikapam make his debut for the Blue Colts, as he replaced Leon Augustine.

Moments after his introduction, Bengaluru were handed a lifeline after a long punt forward from Namgyal Bhutia hit the arm of Adeyi Fred Stephen, in the Nigerian’s attempt to clear his lines. Wangjam’s take from the spot was guessed right by Union goalkeeper Jayanthkumar Krishnamurthy, but the custodian was unable to save as the shot was palmed into the side netting in what was the final action of the game.

The Blue Colts next face South United on December 2nd.