Ambernath United Atlanta FC began their Hero I-League 2 final round campaign on a high note with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over FC Bengaluru United on Thursday, at the iconic Cooperage stadium in Colaba, Mumbai. The win showcased their determination and set the tone for the final round.
Under the guidance of coach Steven Dias, Ambernath United Atlanta FC carried the momentum from their flawless group stage performance, where they emerged victorious in all four matches, securing their spot in the final round. The team aimed to continue their winning streak and did not disappoint their fans who showed up in large numbers to support them at their home ground, Cooperage.
The match witnessed an intense battle between the two teams, with FC Bengaluru United coming off a 1-0 win against Delhi FC in their previous fixture. However, it was Ambernath United Atlanta FC who dominated the proceedings right from the start. The lineup featured Rahul Murali in goal, supported by a solid defensive unit consisting of Shravan, Umesh, and Adil. Nitesh Monde and Kaustubh Ravindra controlled the midfield, while the attacking force comprised of Ashley, Johnson, Aaron, Himanshu, and Arif.
The game remained deadlocked until the 81st minute when the tides turned in favor of Ambernath United Atlanta FC. It was the introduction of Abhijit Tawhare as a substitute that proved to be the game-changer. In the 82nd minute, Abhijit seized the opportunity, displaying his clinical finishing skills by slotting home the decisive goal. His impact as a substitute has been evident in previous matches as well, where he has often changed the course of the game in favor of Ambernath United Atlanta FC.
The winning goal came in the midst of a chaotic scramble inside the box following a corner kick. Abhijit showcased his predatory instincts, capitalizing on the loose ball and finding the back of the net, sending the Cooperage stadium into a frenzy of jubilation. With their defense holding firm, Ambernath United Atlanta FC managed to maintain their slender 1-0 lead until the final whistle, securing all three points and commencing their final-round campaign on a positive note.
Following the completion of the first round of matches, Shillong Lajong currently leads the table with four points after a goalless draw against Delhi FC. Ambernath United Atlanta FC occupies the second spot with three points from their opening match. FC Bengaluru United sits third with one win and one loss, while Delhi FC earned their first point but remains at the fourth position due to their defeat in the opening fixture. United SC, who suffered a 2-1 loss to Shillong Lajong on Matchday 1, finds themselves at the bottom of the table, yet to open their account.
Looking ahead, Ambernath United Atlanta FC will have their second home game on Tuesday, 16th May 2023, against table-toppers Shillong Lajong at Cooperage stadium. The clash against the current leaders promises to be an enthralling encounter, and the home team will be eager to secure another victory and climb to the top of the standings. The match is scheduled to kick off at 4 pm and is expected to draw a sizeable crowd of enthusiastic supporters.
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