IWL 2023-24: Anju Tamang's header secures win for Gokulam Kerala

This was Gokulam Kerala’s first win in IWL 2023-24.

Reigning champions Gokulam Kerala FC registered a hard-fought 1-0 win over HOPS FC in the 2023-24 Indian Women’s League (IWL) at the Ambedkar Stadium on Thursday, December 14, 2023.

This was Gokulam’s first win in two matches having drawn the first match goalless at home against Sethu FC.

India international Anju Tamang’s late first-half goal proved to be the only difference between the two sides, as the Malabarians also climbed to the top of the table with four points from two matches.

Earlier in the day, Gokulam Kerala head coach Anthony Andrews named an unchanged playing eleven from their opening match against Sethu FC.

In a match that then witnessed end-to-end actions right from the kick-off, both teams started well by creating few chances, which turned out to be futile ones. However, Gokulam Kerala finally found the breakthrough via Anju Tamang in a crucial moment just before the half-time whistle.

Tamang showcased exceptional skill by executing a perfect header from a cross by Soumya Guguloth from the left, leaving no room for error as she directed the ball into the back of the net.

As the minutes ticked by in the second half, the Malabarians retained command of the match by managing to keep the ball in the middle of the pitch. There were a few chances at either end but both goalkeepers exhibited good resolve to keep their opponents at bay.

The 73rd minute saw Shilky Devi enter the referee’s books for a foul on an opponent player. Barring this incident, GKFC showcased good control for most parts of the game, eventually returning home with the three points.

HOPS FC have so far lost both their opening games in the IWL this season on home ground and will hope to turn things around when they take on East Bengal FC on January 4, 2024, at the latter’s ground in Kolkata.

Next up for Gokulam Kerala FC, meanwhile, is another assignment away from home, against Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on December 20.

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