Hyderabad, Dec 14 (PTI) Multiple-time champions West Bengal and last year's semi-finalists Manipur bagged victories on the opening day of final round matches at the 78th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy here on Saturday.
West Bengal won 3-1 against Jammu and Kashmir, who are playing in the final round for the first time since 2015-16.
Manipur scored a last-gasp 1-0 win over defending champions Services, while hosts Telangana rallied to take a point from Rajasthan in a 1-1 draw.
For West Bengal, Robi Hansda (3rd minute), Naro Hari Shrestha (12th), Bikram Pradhan 47th) were the goal scorers while Arun Nagial (79th) pulled one back for Jammu and Kashmir.
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In another match, Shunjanthan Ragui's header in the injury-added time (90+6) gave Manipur a stunning win over Services.
Services created more opportunities in the first hour, testing goalkeeper Salam Sanaton Singh on multiple occasions, most notably in a one-on-one chance for Rahul Ramakrishnan, which was expertly saved by the Manipur custodian.
Hosts Telangana then salvaged a point against Rajasthan with a late penalty goal from Tejavath Sai Kartik (90th minute). Amit Godara (53rd) had given the lead.
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