Displaying a fine blending of skill and stamina New Zealand’s Wellington Phoenix tamed a spirited challenge from United Sikkim FC at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium here today.
Whereas players of United Sikkim FC are literally unknown in the world stage, the Wellington side boasted the prescence of World Cup players like Tony Lochead and Jeremy Brockie.
Though the spectators have to endure blazing sun and a brief torrential rain, they were seemingly bedazzled by some quality football displayed by the Wellington side as well the unyielding fight put up by the Sikkim outfit.
The early pressure exerted by the Wellington Phoenix was successfully absorbed by the Sikkim defenders and their Korean goalkeeper Yoon Tae who produced quite a few brilliant saves.
After raids in the Sikkim goalmouth, the opening goal finally came in the 36th minute thanks to a fine shot from Paul Ifil. Tyler Boyd doubled the lead in the 41st minute displaying breathtaking dribbling skills.
Sikkim FC did come back stronger in the second half and tried their best to turn the tide of the match but the Wellington side was simply better and more experienced. Louis Fenton then scored another goal in the 88th minute to register a comfortable victory.
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