Army into Gold Cup semis

Gangtok, Oct 18 (UNI) Displaying free flowing and fast moves, the Army XI today brushed past Jammu and Kashmir Bank 1-0 to storm into the semis of the 30th All India Governor's Gold Football Tournament in a match played here at Paljor Stadium.

The victory margin would have been much higher had the Army men capitalised several opportunities throughout the match.

Finally, when the game looked to be heading towards extra time, midfielder Thiru blasted a loose ball into the J &K Bank's net in the 81st minute. The ball had fallen favourably into his stride during a goal mouth melee.

Earlier, Army XI had a goal disallowed in the first half for offside. The Army team also saw a shot hit the bar in the 50th minute of the game.

Much fitter and skillful, Army XI dominated the game from the word go and created heavy pressure on J &K Bank. A goal was always on the cards as the Army XI moved ahead with purpose and vision. Only the finishing touches were missing.

However, the J &K Bank defence, especially its Nigerian stopper Martins Kolewole, deserved credit for preventing a total washout.

Army XI now awaits the winners of the third quarter final match between Titanium (Kerala) and New Delhi Heroes in the semifinals.

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