Hat-trick hero Seiminlen Doungel keeps NorthEast United FC alive in Hero Indian Super League

Seiminlen Doungel became the first Indian player to score a hat-trick in this edition of the Hero Indian Super League as NorthEast United FC tore visitor Chennaiyin FC's defence to shreds with a 3-1 victory at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium.

NorthEast United had lost 0-3 against Chennaiyin FC in Chennai earlier in their first-leg clash. There was a huge gap between the two teams on the ISL table with Chennaiyin targeting a top spot and NorthEast trying to rescue their campaign. It seemed a mismatch but Doungel turned the tables on their rivals with a hat-trick, the first ever for NorthEast United since inception in 2014.

Doungel scored the opening goal in the 42nd minute to give his team the lead at half-time. In the second session, Doungel struck twice in the 46th and 68th minute to complete a hat-trick. Anirudh Thapa pulled a goal back in the 79th minute but there was no way NorthEast would allow their lead to slip away at home.

The win gives NorthEast United 10 points after 10 matches and keeps their chances of qualifying alive. Chennaiyin FC will retain their second position on the points table with 20 points from 11 matches.

(Agencies)

Featured image(courtesy): Hindustan Times