Cuttack, Feb 10: The Orissa eves played their hearts out but went down 3-5 via the tie-breaker to Manipur in the final of the women’s football event at Thrissur, Tuesday. The match ended 1-1 in regulation time.
In the exciting tie, Orissa enjoyed ball possession for extended periods but were unable to convert the chances that came their way. Orissa took the lead in the 11th minute when Pinky Bompal scored with spectacular long-range shot. Immediately after the goal, Sasmita Mallick had a chance to increase the tally, but shot wide.
Not to be outdone, Manipur started mounting attacks and Bala Devi taking advantage of a defensive lapse restored parity. In the second session, Orissa had two clear chances but failed to convert and as a result the match petered into extra-time.
In the additional 30 minutes, Orissa again dominated for an extended period but lack of opportunism in front of the opposition goal cost them dearly. They paid the price when in the tie-breaker Manipur converted four of their five efforts. Only Pinky and Sasmita could score for Orissa and they had to be satisfied with the silver medal.
The Football Association of Orissa announced a cash award of Rs 5,000 each to the footballers as well as the coach, manager and support staff.
POST NEWS NETWORK