Bengaluru FC clinch their first Federation Cup trophy with 2-1 win over Dempo
Bengaluru FC were crowned the winners of Federation Cup 2015, following their 2-1 win over Dempo SC. Ashley Westwood's team, opened the scoring, as early as the 10th minute itself, when a bombarding Lydogh, was brought down inside the penalty box.
A calm and composed Sunil Chettri, comfortably slotted the ball past Dempo's goalkeeper to give Bengaluru FC the lead. Although, Dempo's prolific goalscorer Tolgay Ozbey, equalised their deficit with a well-slotted penalty in the 45th minute, substitute Robin Singh, scored a delightful header in the 65th minute, to hand Bengaluru the lead, once again.
The first half of the final was all about Dempo. The Golden Eagles, pretty much justified their mettle and attacked relentlessly. Tolgay Ozbey, who was in scintillating form, wreaked havoc in Bengaluru's defense.
The I-League Champions were pinned down in their own half for the better part of the first half. An injury to Walker in the 24th minute forced Westwood to make a change in the first half itself and the former Manchester United player, introduced Robin Singh, to add sting to their attack.
Robin, constantly teed balls for Sunil Chhetri, as the duo looked in red hot form in counter attacks.
The second half saw a more resilient Bengaluru FC. Although the opening minutes of the second half were dominated by Dempo, the Blues dug their feet into the ground and started to dominate proceedings.
A red card to Dempo's Rodrigues hampered their chances of a comeback as the team were now not only a goal down, but a man down too. Still, Dempo's rebellious form was evident as Romeo Fernandes 's heroics often threatened Bengaluru's dominance.
With Bengaluru a man up, Westwood's man started to pull strings and Sean Rooney came close to doubling their lead in the 87th minutes, as his header was cleared away by Francis Fernandes.
Although, the Golden Eagles continued to pile pressure on the I league champions, the I league champions defiantly stood in their way and often committed men behind the ball, to thwart Dempo's advances.
It was evident from Bengaluru FC's form that they were not having the best of days. Still, like Champions, the team rallied forces and held on to a slender league, which ultimately gave them the coveted Federation Cup trophy.