Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal

Imphal, Aug 7: NEROCA FC and Indian Navy FT battled to a gritty 0–0 draw in a Group F clash of the 134th Durand Cup at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium on Thursday, with both sides sharing the spoils after a tense, defensively disciplined encounter.

The match featured energetic play and moments of promise from both camps, but ultimately lacked the cutting edge in the final third. Indian Navy’s Deny Singh fired the first warning shot early on, but NEROCA keeper Jetli Sorokhaibam was quick to react. NEROCA responded through Lourembam, who tested Bhaskar Roy with a powerful strike, but the Navy custodian stood tall.

Both teams created half-chances throughout the first half, with Deny Singh orchestrating attacks for the Sailors and NEROCA’s Lourembam and Rohit Meetei probing from the wings. However, tight defending from Lucas Da Silva and Japes for NEROCA, and a composed Navy backline, kept the scoreline unchanged.

In the second half, Deny Singh came close twice in quick succession, but failed to find the net. NEROCA skipper Kinesh Singh had a near-miss from a left-footed effort, while Navy’s best opportunity came late in the 88th minute when Sreyas struck the post.

The game’s final flashpoint came in stoppage time as Zlex received a straight red card for a tactical foul, halting a dangerous Navy counterattack. Pintu's resulting free-kick went straight into the wall, sealing the stalemate.

Indian Navy FT, now with four points from two matches, top Group F and next face TRAU FC on August 12. NEROCA FC, with two points, will play Real Kashmir FC on August 10.