Srinagar: Real Kashmir FC produced a spirited performance to defeat Sreenidi Deccan FC 2-0 in their Indian Football League clash on Sunday, keeping their hopes of avoiding relegation alive.
Goals from Ahteeb Ahmad Dar and Oinam Sanatomba Singh sealed a crucial victory for the Snow Leopards, who climbed to ninth place in the standings and received a major boost ahead of the relegation phase.
Sreenidi Deccan, meanwhile, missed the chance to move into second position and ended the first round on 15 points.
Midfielder Marius Obekop was named Player of the Match after delivering two assists and playing a key role throughout the contest.
Sreenidi dominate early, Real Kashmir strike before break
The visitors controlled possession for long spells in the opening half and created the first clear opportunity in the seventh minute when David Castaneda’s header forced a sharp save from goalkeeper Furkan Ahmad Dar.
Real Kashmir largely relied on set-pieces and counter-attacks, but they struck decisively just before halftime.
In the 45th minute, Obekop beat his marker on the flank and delivered a dangerous cross for Basit Ahmed Bhat. Kamaljit Singh made an excellent initial save, but Ahteeb Ahmad Dar reacted quickest to the rebound and calmly slotted home to hand the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Strong defence and late brilliance seal victory
Sreenidi Deccan came out aggressively after the restart in search of an equaliser, but Real Kashmir’s defence stood firm.
In the 88th minute, Oinam Sanatomba Singh produced a vital goal-line clearance after Furkan Ahmad Dar had been beaten, preserving the narrow lead.
Deep into stoppage time, Real Kashmir sealed the win from a short corner. In the 93rd minute, Obekop found Sanatomba, who curled a brilliant long-range strike into the net to make it 2-0.
League splits into Championship and Relegation phases
With the completion of the first stage of the Indian Football League season, the competition now splits into Championship and Relegation phases.
Diamond Harbour FC finished top of the table with 22 points, five clear of the chasing pack.
Joining the Championship Phase are Shillong Lajong FC, Rajasthan United FC, Sreenidi Deccan FC, Chanmari FC and Dempo Sports Club.
The Relegation Phase will feature Aizawl FC, Real Kashmir FC, Gokulam Kerala FC and Namdhari FC, with all four sides battling to stay in the league.
