UditVani, Jamshedpur : A dramatic stoppage-time header from Heeranganba Seram earned Jamshedpur FC U-18 a valuable 2–2 draw against Inter Kashi in their first away fixture of the AIFF Elite League on Saturday, showcasing the young side’s resilience and fighting spirit.
Jamshedpur FC began the contest on an aggressive note, asserting early control and creating multiple chances.
Mars Ningthoujam went close in the fourth minute with a header that narrowly missed the target, setting the tone for sustained attacking pressure from the visitors.
The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when Seram attempted to slip a through ball to Mars inside the penalty area. Inter Kashi defender Lunlensang Khonsai, under pressure, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving Jamshedpur a deserved early lead.
The Men of Steel dominated possession and territory for much of the first half and went into the interval leading 1–0.
Inter Kashi returned with renewed intent after the break and equalised following a lapse in communication during a free-kick situation. Jamshedpur responded positively, and in the 58th minute Ayangsana Meitei came close to restoring the lead, but his powerful header from a Mars cross was smartly pushed over the bar by the goalkeeper.
The hosts then capitalised on a counter-attack in the 64th minute to take a 2–1 lead, putting Jamshedpur under pressure. Despite the setback, the visitors continued to press forward. Substitute Rayan squandered a clear chance, while Seram also missed an opportunity from close range as Jamshedpur searched relentlessly for an equaliser.
The match took another turn in the 86th minute when Inter Kashi were reduced to ten men, with Khunumayum Priyokumar receiving his second yellow card. Jamshedpur made the numerical advantage count deep into stoppage time. Satyajit Das swung in a pinpoint corner, and Seram rose highest to power home a decisive header, sealing a hard-earned point.
Jamshedpur FC U-18 will next take on AIFF FIFA Talent Academy, Bhubaneswar, in their upcoming Elite League fixture on December 20 at Jamshedpur.
