United Sports Club's dream of playing in the elite I-League next season received a big blow as the team in its opening match in the final phase of the League qualifier on Saturday lost 1-2 against Shilong Lajong FC in an away match in Shilong. 

The team which was unbeaten in the League qualifiers so far conceded their defeat on the day. Now they must have to ensure victories in all of their remaining three matches and look at the points earned by the other four teams qualified in the final phase of the qualifiers.

It was not the United Sports Club's day. The team's captain Sanjib Mondol scored the only goal for the visitors but they missed positive chances a galore, especially in the second half. 

Sanjib reacting to the defeat, stated, "This was probably the first match in our journey this season we messed up missing so many chances in 90 minutes. Luck was not also us as two of our goalbound shots rebounded off the post. We had complete domination for almost 45 minutes in the second half but failed to secure the full three points finally. All of us are extremely disappointed about the first defeat in the League qualifiers. Still, our chief coach encouraged us, praised us for having created chances, and advised us to set focus on the next tie." 

United SC director Nabab Bhattacharya also admitted saying, "No doubt, we are in a tight spot after this defeat. We could have won by at least five goals today. Missing opportunities turned out to be a key factor" The team will play their next match against Delhi FC at Kalyani Stadium on 16th May.