Rohit Danu becomes the youngest goalscorer in I-League history as Arrows bag crucial three points

The youngster beat fellow teammate Jitendra Singh to the feat.

Indian Arrows edged past former champions, Aizawl FC in a smash and grab I-league affair at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, where the Colts managed to snatch a 1-0 win, courtesy of a goal from Rohit Danu.

It is only the third win for Floyd Pinto's boys and teenage sensation Danu became the youngest goalscorer in the league, beating fellow team member Jitendra Singh to the feat, at the mere age of 16 years and 27 days.

Aizawl were coming on the back of a win against Gokulam Kerala and were expected to produce a similar result against the Colts. The Reds did start the match in dominant fashion, taking the attack to their opposition. However, Arrows stood their ground and defended valiantly.

Pinto's boys were well-rewarded for their astute defending, as Aizawl defender Kareem Nurain's sloppy pass was intercepted by midfielder Khumanthem Meitei. The youngster then carried the ball through the middle and released a beautiful measured pass to Danu just out the box. The striker who is known for his attacking prowess made no mistake to put the ball into the back of the net on the14th minute.

Gift Raikhan's men came close and had a golden opportunity to restore parity when Rochher Zella misfired from an inch-perfect delivery from Fanai. That was the closest the Reds came in the whole of the first half.

Aizawl were desperate right from the start of the second half in search for an equaliser. The Blue Colts though were immense with their defensive shape and stability, as they nullified almost each an every attack which came their way. Even when the Aizawl attackers went past the defenders, it was the towering presence of Prabhsukhan Gill who kept out everything thrown at him on the day.

Also Read

• Talking Points: Is Pedro Manzi destined to win I-League Golden Boot?

• Thailand Vs India Preview: The Asian dream begins!

• Talking Points: Can NEROCA rely on Yusa-Aryn partnership in long run?

[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Most of the second half was a cagey midfield battle and despite getting fewer chances on the day, the Arrows side were clinical in front of goal. It was a special day for teenager Danu, as his side snatched a very crucial three points.

Arrows are now in ninth position in the league table, with 10 points and have played a game less than eigth-placed Gokulam Kerala, who have the same number of points but are ahead on superior goal-difference.