Jaipur, Jan 25 (NationPress) Rajasthan United FC stunned Churchill Brothers with a 1-0 victory in the I-League 2024-25 match held at Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium on Saturday. This defeat marked Churchill's second setback of the New Year. The decisive goal came from Spanish forward Gerard Artigas, who found the net during the dying moments of the second half.

This loss was a significant blow for the visiting team, as it also meant they relinquished their position at the top of the league standings. Namdhari FC, who achieved an impressive victory over Shillong Lajong FC earlier in the day, now leads the table with 20 points, while the team from Goa slipped to second place with 19 points after 10 matches. On the other hand, Rajasthan climbed to fourth place, amassing 14 points from their nine games. This victory extended the Desert Warriors' unbeaten streak to five matches, during which they have collected 11 points.

After a surprising loss at the start of the New Year, Churchill appeared to regain form and were eager to increase their lead following Inter Kashi's defeat the previous evening. However, Rajasthan proved to be a tough opponent, having gone unbeaten in four consecutive matches, showcasing a notable turnaround from their earlier season struggles.

As anticipated, the visitors began the match with more intensity, creating several chances in a first half that lacked significant goal-scoring opportunities. One of the best chances came for Kingslee Fernandes, whose well-timed run at the far post was met with a perfect cross from the left, but his volley went over the bar.

Churchill nearly took the lead when Lamgoulen Hangshing made a cutback from the right to Kingslee, whose shot on target was deflected by a defender, saving the goal.

The match progressed with neither side managing to score, as half chances dwindled. The most significant opportunity came for Churchill's Nishchal Chandan in the 88th minute when a corner fell to him inside the six-yard box, but he volleyed it over from a tight angle.

Rajasthan capitalized on that missed chance deep into injury time. A hopeful cross from Mateo Caprile reached Samuel Lyngdoh, whose flying volley was brilliantly saved by Kadir. However, the rebound fell perfectly for Gerard Artigas, who simply tapped it in from just two yards out.

Celebrations erupted among the coaching staff and fans as Churchill looked astonished. This was effectively the last significant action of the match, as Rajasthan celebrated an impressive and well-deserved three points.