Sergio hat-trick sinks Sreenidi

Kolkata, Dec. 27: A sensational hat-trick on debut from Spanish striker Sergio Mendiguchia powered Neroca FC to a 3-2 victory over I-League newcomers Sreenidi Deccan at the Naihati Stadium here on Monday.

Girik Khosla and David Castenada Munoz got on the score sheet for Sreenidi Deccan, but the odd goal fell Neroca FC’s way to give the side from Manipur all three points in this clash.

Neroca FC broke the deadlock in the 15th minute through new signing Mendi, who came alive in the box as he brought down a free kick with his chest and bundled it home from close range after Sreenidi goalkeeper Ubaid CK made the save at the first time of asking.

The Spanish duo of Mendi and Mera combined again from a set piece in the 22nd minute. Standing over a free kick from a wider position this time, set piece specialist Mera whipped in a fantastically shaped flat delivery into the box which was promptly nodded home by Mendi for his second goal.

In the 41st minute, Girik Khosla was on hand to reduce the arrears for Sreenidi Deccan.

After the break, Mendi made it a dream debut in Indian football in the 49th minute, completing a fine hat-trick by scoring with his right foot, head and left foot respectively.

The Spanish striker doubled his side’s advantage again with his best goal of the lot. Goalkeeper Ubaid rushed out hoping to clear the ball, but he was beaten to it by Mendi, who lifted the ball over him from 20 yards out.

The match saw another twist in the tale in the 59th minute. Colombian striker David Castaneda Munoz announced his arrival into the I-League with a perfectly executed header. —