Mohali:
Minerva Academy F.C. extended their flawless run in the AIFF Sub Junior League, producing a scintillating performance to thrash Corbett FC 9–0, recording their fourth consecutive victory and firmly establishing themselves at the top of Group A.
Coming into the fixture on the back of a hard-fought win against Namdhari FC, the hosts carried confidence and momentum into the contest. Minerva started the match with intent and control, pressing high and dictating the tempo from the outset. Their positive approach paid off early when Mamesh calmly converted from the penalty spot to open the scoring.
The pressure continued to mount, and Minerva doubled their advantage soon after through Bickson, whose powerful long-range effort found the back of the net to make it 2–0. Ten minutes later, Minerva struck again following a well-worked corner routine. Mamesh showcased his skill and composure by dribbling past two defenders before finishing clinically to extend the lead to three.
Minerva’s attacking momentum showed no signs of slowing down. Bickson added his second of the match with a thunderous strike at the second post, further stretching the lead. Just before the halftime whistle, Letgouhao Kipgen capped a dominant first-half display with a brilliant strike to make it 5–0, underlining Minerva’s superiority going into the break.
The second half saw Minerva introduce three substitutions, providing an opportunity to test their bench strength—changes that paid immediate dividends. Substitute Manichandra announced his arrival in style, unleashing a stunning long-range effort that sailed past the Corbett FC goalkeeper to make it six.
Minerva continued to attack with pace and precision, and T. Kipgen added further gloss to the scoreline with two clever finishes, exploiting spaces with intelligent movement inside the box. In stoppage time, Bickson completed a well-deserved hat-trick, finding the net in the 92nd minute to put the final nail in the coffin and seal a comprehensive 9–0 victory.
The result further highlights Minerva Academy F.C.’s attacking prowess and defensive discipline. With 37 goals scored and just one conceded in four matches, Minerva currently sit top of the Group A points table, setting the benchmark in the competition.
Minerva Academy F.C. will look to continue their remarkable form when they face Mother’s Pride Football Academy on 17th February at the Minerva Academy Ground, as the Warriors aim to extend their winning streak in the AIFF Sub Junior League.