United Sports Club despite being 10 men for the last 40 minutes upset fancied East Bengal by 1-0 in Reliance Football Development League’s (RFDL) east zone group league match at Barrackpur Stadium on Friday. 

The memorable part of the match was Dilip Orao’s world-class goal in the 60th minute after United Sports were reduced to 10 men. Dilip unleashed a magnificent 35-yard right-footer from a free-kick that stunned the goalkeeper and went into the nets through the first post.

The 23-year-old wing-half when asked about his first goal this season commented, "I also practice long-rangers in the training but generally take the shots with left foot from the right side. Today, before taking the shot I watched the goalkeeper's position and tried to keep the shot within the target." 

Dilip who signed for Gukulam FC in 2022 did not get enough opportunity in the I-League. He was fielded in only two matches. The frustration was natural. Still, he did not give up. He was giving his best in the training. 

Gradually the disappointment was converted to determination, especially when United SC director Nabab Bhattacharya asked him to return to United SC on loan and play in the ongoing second division I-league. 

Dilip said, "I was not getting an opportunity at Gokulam FC. It might be that my performance was not up to the mark. I became quite upset. Still, I dedicated myself to training. Amidst the situation, Nabab uncle asked me to play for United SC in the Second Division I-league and this offer turned my frustration into determination.”

Dilip added, “I am grateful to Nabab uncle. He created the opportunity for me to regain my rhythm and confidence. I have not played competitive matches for almost one year. So, RFDL is the perfect platform to regain my belief.” 

An ardent fan of Neymar Da Silva Santos Junior, Dilip Orao had another memorable experience of playing against his favorite in Indian football, Sunil Chhetri in the Santosh Trophy in 2021-22. “We played 1-1 draw against them. Bengal finished as runner-up,” revealed Dilip. 

Looking forward to the team’s forthcoming engagement in RFDL and Second Division I-League matches, Friday’s goal seems to have given Dilip a boost. 

He concluded, “If I get a chance I must be consistent. I also must say the coaches from Debraj Chatterjee, and Partha Sen in the junior level to Anjan Nath and Steve Herbots in the senior level will deserve the main credit if I can perform consistently. All of these coaches motivate me a lot to improve in every match.”