Panaji: Dempo SC were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Belgaum United in their AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League clash at the Sporting Planet Sports Complex, Belgaum, on Wednesday.
In the first half Dempo SC gained control in the midfield creating chances at the rival goal. Their persistence paid off when Jodric Abranches put the Golden Eagles ahead in the 27th minute, capitalizing on a well-worked move to break the deadlock.
Belgaum United regrouped from the setback and displayed control in the midfield.
Belgaum responded just before halftime, with Mutum Bikash finding the net in the 45th minute to restore parity.
The second half saw a tense battle, with both sides pushing for a winner. Dempo were reduced to ten men after Vishal Chawan received a second booking, forcing them to dig deep defensively.
In the dying minutes, Belgaum pushed hard to gain the lead. However, despite their numerical disadvantage, Dempo defense held firm to deny Belgaum a late winner. At fulltime the score was 1-1.
