India beaten 1-3 by Vancouver Whitecaps

Vancouver, July 20 (UNI) Sunil Chhetri's goal in the first half injury time was the lone consolation as India suffered a 1-3 defeat at the hands of Vancouver Whitecaps in the opening game of the inaugural Whitecaps Nations Cup at the Swangard Stadium here last night.

In an otherwise lacklustre show, Chhetri shone bright and was adjudged, along with rival forward David Morris, player of the game.

Playing with a heavy heart after being informed about former captain VP Sathyan's suicide, the Indian team, in its first tournament under new coach Bob Houghton, looked good only in patches and the lack of coordination among the players was quite evident.

Despite Chhetri's trojan effort, India could not really pose serious threat to their opponents and poor passing and ball control marred most of their moves.

After the initial assessment of their rivals, the local favourites drew the first blood through David Testo in the 15th minute after the striker was fed by Morris.

Chhetri scored the lone goal for his side but India suffered a setback when Morris' shot was deflected by defender N Manju that went past the baffled custodian Sandip Nandy.

Morris sealed the game firmly in the hosts' favour with his 73rd minute strike and it was all over for Houghton's side by then.

Earlier, NBA star Steve Nash performed the ceremonial kickoff.

The next match will see China's under-20 national team locking horns with Cardiff City FC and the winner will battle for the championship against white caps on Sunday.

UNI XC AY PM VV1201