TFA, Churchill Brothers enter NFL First Division

Bangalore, May 9 (UNI) In a rain marred match, fancied Tata Football Academy (TFA) downed Coca Cola Churchill Brothers 2-1 to make its maiden entry into the National Football League (NFL) first division, along with the latter, here today.

With this win, the Academymen topped the points tally with 12 points earned by four wins and a loss.

The Goan outfit, despite tasting defeat in the final round of the second division ONGC Cup 10th NFL, entered the first division league by virtue of occupying second place in the table by earning ten points from five matches with three wins, one loss and a draw.

While the Churchill Brothers, who were relegated last year after being the runner-up twice, made their re-entry into NFL first division.

In today's match, both the teams failed to score in the first half. The Academymen opened their account when substitute striker Vimal Pariyar moved swiftly and netted the ball which bounced from the hands of Churchill Custodian Vinay Singh when Freddy Mascarenhas shot.

Nigerian striker Odafe Onveka Okolie scored the equaliser for the Goans in the 70th minute. Despite a heavy downpour, Tata striker Robert Lalthalama netted the ball in the 89th minute, encashing on a free kick pass given by Brabco Cardozo which gave the win to his team.

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