HYDERABAD Hyderabad: Meghalaya prevailed in a tough encounter against Goa, eventually winning 1-0 on penalties to qualify for the next round of the ongoing national championship. Both sides missed several chances in the match, but Damanbhalang Chine (89') finally made the difference as he converted the penalty to send Meghalaya into the quarter-finals.
Goa, coming into the match after two losses and just one win, needed points against Meghalaya to make the last eight. After a stellar first half, the west coast team deployed five defenders to guard their goal. However, Meghalaya continued to attack. Kharav Kupar Jana looked very active on the right side and got a chance to beat Goa goalkeeper Sanij Budge, but his attempt failed. Donald Diengdoh had a few close chances, but one of them came from the uprights, while the other missed the target.
Meghalaya were becoming desperate as the clock ran out, but were soon given a lease of life when substitute Debormen Tongpar's shirt was pulled inside the box; The referee immediately pointed to the spot, with Chine securing three points for Meghalaya.
Odisha held Tamil Nadu 1-1
Tamil Nadu's quest for a first win continued in the final round of the Santosh Trophy when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Odisha. Both the teams remained engaged in a goalless struggle till the break. Alexander Romario Jesuraj (68') converted the penalty and gave hope of victory. However, their lead could last only for seven minutes, as Rahul Mukhi (75') made an excellent save in the defence. He jumped on the aerial through ball from behind and then dodged the goalkeeper to bring Odisha on par. Odisha is fourth in Group B with four points from four matches so far. On the other hand, Tamil Nadu is at the bottom with two points from as many matches.
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