Date:28/10/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/10/28/stories/2007102861661700.htm

Sport - Football

IAF XI qualifies

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Indian Air Force XI qualified for the main draw of the Osian’s Durand Cup football tournament following a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Amity United Club at the Ambedkar Stadium here on Saturday.

Air Force scored in the 64th minute through Kalyan Pal, who headed in a cross from T.T.S. Stephen, and Lalramzuava added one more goal nine minutes later from a penalty.

For Amity United, Tushar Chaudhary reduced the margin in the 84th minute.

In its pre-quarterfinal match on November 1, IAF will meet National Football League champion Dempo Sports Club (Goa).

Air Force earned a scoring opportunity in the 12th minute, but Stephen’s scorching drive was blocked by an agile Deepak Kumar Singh.

The next chance came when substitute Manish Negi shot firmly but just over the bar.

On resumption, Prashant Singh shook the crosspiece as IAF continued to dominate.