They play out 1-1 against RFYC to finish in the top three
Mapusa: Dempo SC secured qualification for the National Group Stage of the Reliance Foundation Development League after finishing third in the zonal phase, after settling for a 1-1 draw against Reliance Foundation Young Champs in their last fixture at the Duler Football Stadium, Mapusa on Tuesday.
Dempo SC played out a tense 1-1 draw against Reliance Foundation Young Champs in their final zonal match, a result that sealed their progression. Swavel Furtado gave Dempo the lead in the 36th minute, capitalising on a rebound after his initial effort was saved, Murphy’s follow-up was blocked, and Furtado reacted quickest to slot it home. Reliance Young Champs equalised in the 75th minute following a defensive lapse by the Dempo goalkeeper.
The closing stages saw tempers flare, with Dempo’s Sairon Albuquerque and Stenis Touthang shown red cards in stoppage time, while Sinjith As was sent off for the opponents. Despite missing several clear chances across both halves, Dempo held on for the crucial point.
Reflecting on the campaign, coach Remus highlighted his side’s mental strength after a difficult start. “After losing the first two matches, it was a mountain to climb. The boys showed character and hunger to qualify. We need to be more composed, especially with unnecessary red cards, because the national stage will be tougher,” he said, while expressing confidence in his squad to perform better than the previous matches.
Sesa FA topped the table to qualify alongside FC Goa, who finished second, with Dempo SC claiming the third and final qualifying spot.
