IAF, Delhi FC register easy wins

Last year’s runners-up Indian Air Force and Delhi FC registered fluent victories during their opening matches in the Group-B preliminary league matches of Football Delhi (DSA) Annual Senior Division Open Clubs Football League Championship at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Monday.

While, Indian Air Force defeated newly promoted Jaguar FC 4-0, Delhi FC thrashed Shastri FC 5-0.

After Ashok Kumar scoring opener to give last year’s runners-up an early lead in the fifth minute, Jijo Zedo, Md Danish and Zico zorem sangha added goal each in 20th, 39th and 60th minute respectively as Indian Air Force completed a convincing win.

Later, Narendra, Sourabh, Jaskaran, Sourabh Singh and Sourabh contributed in Delhi FC’s win with a goal apiece.

Defending champions Garhwal FC and runners-up Indian Air Force are expected to present strong challenge in the competition

GARHWAL FC THRASH

CITY FC

Djidja Pierre Douhou Sey produced a sensational performance as defending champions Garhwal FC began their campaign with a 9-0 win over City FC in the opening match of League on Sunday.

An attacking midfielder, Douhou Pierre smashed four goals to provide an ideal start for his team in the league which will see top 18 clubs from the city competing.

Douhou Pierre was well supported by Ripudaman Pokhriyal who hit two goals. Nitin and Zamthianmamg scored one goal each for Garhwal FC.

Later during the second match of the league, Hindustan FC registered a 2-0 win over Youngmen. Jatinder and Raja struck one goal each for the winning side.

The 18 teams are divided into two groups during the league stage.

However, top five teams from each group will qualify for the premier league which is to be held for the first time in Delhi.

President of Football Delhi Shaji Prabhakaran said: “We are introducing Premier League for the first time in Delhi Football to strengthen football culture and to initiate professionalism among clubs in Delhi.”

Defending champions Garhwal FC and runners-up Indian Air Force are expected to present strong challenge in the competition which will see other top clubs, including Youngmen, Delhi FC, National United, Indian National FC, Delhi United, Rangers SC, Friends United, Sudeva FC, Tarun Sangha, Ahbab FC, Hindustan FC, Shastri FC, City FC, Jaguar FC, Royal Rangers and DDA FC, taking part.