Minerva Academy Football Club opened the new year with a convincing 3–1 victory over Corbett FC in an AIFF Elite Youth League fixture, delivering a composed and disciplined performance to secure all three points and strengthen their position in the group standings.
Minerva asserted control from the outset and made their intent clear with an early breakthrough in the third minute. Raj capitalised on a positive attacking move, finishing confidently to give his side the lead and set the tempo for the remainder of the first half.
The early pressure continued to pay dividends, as Minerva doubled their advantage in the sixth minute. Lumkin stepped up to convert a well-executed free-kick, placing the ball beyond the reach of the Corbett FC goalkeeper and giving Minerva firm control of the contest.
Minerva maintained dominance in possession and territory, repeatedly creating opportunities in the final third. Their sustained pressure was rewarded in the 42nd minute, when Frenky produced a composed finish to extend the lead to 3–0, reflecting Minerva’s control and attacking efficiency.
Corbett FC managed to respond just before the interval, scoring in stoppage time of the first half to reduce the deficit to 3–1 at the break.
After halftime, Minerva displayed maturity and tactical discipline, managing the game effectively by controlling possession and maintaining defensive organisation. Corbett FC were restricted to limited chances, with Minerva’s structured approach ensuring there were no major threats to their advantage.
The performance highlighted Minerva Academy FC’s consistency and preparation at the youth level, as they controlled the second half and saw out the match comfortably.
With this result, Minerva Academy FC now sits firmly at the second place in the group standings with 13 points from six matches, having registered four wins, one draw, and one loss in the competition so far.
Minerva Academy will next be in action in an away fixture against Sri Dashmesh Martial Sports Academy, where they will aim to build on this result and maintain momentum in the AIFF Elite Youth League.