Nigerian Bernard Operanozie's stint as coach of Hindustan FC started on a positive note as his team defeated 11 Gorkha Rifles' Regimental Centre, Lucknow, 4-0 to advance in the qualifiers of the Osian's Durand Cup in Delhi on Friday.
Oparanozie, who was at the helm of Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan last season, saw goals from Daniel (15th minute), captain Manish Maithani (73rd) and Mahendra (82nd and 89th) send Hindustan FC to a second round encounter with Garhwal Heroes.
Maithani's goal was an example of great vision and opportunism as he capitalised on the goalkeeper being out of position to chip the ball into the net from almost the half-way mark.
The match was testament to the superior fitness of the local side as the last three goals came in a quarter of an hour towards the end when the Regimental Centre boys seemed to flag a bit.
However, 11 GRRC were firmly in the game till the second goal as it seemed Hindustan FC were keen to protect the one-goal lead which gave several looks on goal for their rivals.
After the second strike, Oparanozie brought on Nathan in place of Daniel and the introduction of pace settled the match in his team's favour.
Assam Regiment take on SAIL City Football Club on Saturday.
