Minerva Academy Football Club displayed resilience, character, and tactical maturity as they secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Sri Dashmesh Martial Sports Academy in an AIFF Elite Youth League fixture at Anandpur Sahib, snatching three crucial points in a demanding away encounter.
Coming into the match after a week-long break and a morale-boosting double over Corbett FC, Minerva faced a spirited start from the hosts, who struck early in the sixth minute to take the lead and put immediate pressure on the visitors.
Undeterred by the early setback, Minerva responded with composure and a strong mentality. Their persistence paid off through a well-rehearsed set-piece routine, executed with precision. Husanpreet delivered an intelligent chipped ball into the penalty area, where Raj Singh Wahengbam rose highest to head home the equaliser, restoring parity and shifting the momentum in Minerva’s favour.
Minerva continued to grow into the contest, controlling possession and exploiting spaces as the hosts began to show signs of fatigue. Their dominance was rewarded in the closing moments of the first half when Hemneichung Lunkim produced a moment of individual brilliance. The forward dribbled past three defenders with ease before calmly slotting the ball home, completing the turnaround and giving Minerva a 2–1 lead heading into the break.
The second half unfolded as a tense and physical battle, with Sri Dashmesh Martial SA pushing for an equaliser. However, Minerva showcased tactical discipline and defensive organisation, managing the game intelligently and limiting the hosts to half-chances. Their structured approach ensured the scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle.
Lunkim’s decisive strike ultimately proved to be the match-winner, underlining his remarkable form in the competition. The forward has now netted nine goals in seven appearances, while Raj Singh Wahengbam continued his scoring momentum by finding the net in his second consecutive match.
With this victory, Minerva Academy FC consolidates second place in the group standings, moving to 16 points from seven matches. The result further reflects the team’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure in challenging fixtures.
Minerva Academy FC will next be in action against Himachal FC on 23rd January, as they look to extend their strong run and maintain momentum in the AIFF Elite Youth League.