Jaipur: The five-match unbeaten streak of Rajasthan United Football Club (RUFC) was finally halted by Sreenidhi Deccan at the Deccan Arena in Hyderabad on Sunday.In the eighth and penultimate match of the Indian Football League (IFL), RUFC faced a narrow 1-2 defeat against the local side.The hosts established an early advantage through Brandon Vanlalremdika, but Rajasthan United FC responded with discipline and intent, reducing the deficit through Issac Nortey in the 77th minute. The team maintained attacking pressure in search of an equaliser, demonstrating resilience and structure in the final phase of the match.The contest became more demanding in the second half following the dismissal of Shafeel PP, which reduced Rajasthan United FC to ten men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the тАШDesert Warriors’ remained organised and continued to fight effectively until full-time.Sreenidi took the lead seven minutes from time with another effort from distance. Lalthankhuma received the ball at the edge of the box and, with minimal backlift, unleashed a powerful strike that surprised RUFC goalkeeper and captain Bhabindra Malla Thakuri and found the back of the net.It was Sreenidi’s fourth victory of the season and confirmed their place in the top six ahead of the second round of matches.They jumped to the second spot with 15 points from eight matches, while Rajasthan United FC are just below them in the third place with 14 points. The Jaipur-based side also clinched a place in the тАШSuper Six’ with a round to go.The RUFC head coach Vikrant Sharma rued the fact that they competed with ten men in the second session.“While the result is not in our favour, the overall application and commitment shown by the players were commendable. Competing with ten men for a significant period and still remaining in contention highlights the team’s character. We will review the key moments and focus on improving ahead of the next fixture,” Sharma told TOI on Sunday.The RUFC chairman KK Tak was disappointed with the result.“It was a hard-fought contest, and while the outcome was disappointing, the fighting spirit shown by the team, especially under difficult circumstances, was encouraging. We believe in the team and are confident they will respond strongly in the upcoming matches.”Rajasthan United FC will now turn their attention to the upcoming match on April 19 against Dempo Sporting Club at their home ground, Fatorda Stadium, Goa.The club expressed their appreciation to supporters for their continued encouragement and remains focused on delivering a strong response in the next outing.
