Siniolchu FC Snatch Narrow Win Over Red Panda FC in Sikkim S-League

A solitary second-half goal was enough for Siniolchu FC to claim a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Red Panda FC in the Indian Sikkim S-League on May 8, 2026. The match, played under overcast skies at Paljor Stadium, saw Siniolchu edge a tightly contested encounter through a well-taken strike from midfielder Tenzing Bhutia in the 67th minute.

Match Report

Both teams began cautiously, with the opening 20 minutes dominated by midfield battles and few clear-cut chances. Red Panda FC, playing in their signature red-and-white stripes, pressed high early on, but Siniolchu's defensive line, marshaled by veteran center-back Karma Tsering, remained resolute. Red Panda's best opportunity came in the 33rd minute when striker Rinzing Dorjee headed wide from a corner.

Siniolchu grew into the game as the first half progressed, creating two half-chances for winger Sonam Topgyal, but the Red Panda goalkeeper Pema Wangchuk was equal to both efforts. The score remained 0-0 at the break.

Second Half Breakthrough

The second half followed a similar pattern until the 67th minute. Siniolchu FC earned a free kick 30 yards from goal. Captain Namgyal Sherpa delivered a looping ball into the box that was partially cleared. The ball fell to Tenzing Bhutia on the edge of the area, and he struck a powerful half-volley that deflected off a Red Panda defender and looped over the stranded goalkeeper into the net.

Red Panda FC pushed for an equalizer in the final 20 minutes, introducing fresh legs in attack. However, Siniolchu's defense, backed by goalkeeper Tsering Lhamo (who made a vital save from Rinzing Dorjee in the 82nd minute), held firm to secure all three points.

Key Stats

• Possession: Red Panda FC 52% – 48% Siniolchu FC
• Shots on target: Red Panda 3 – 4 Siniolchu
• Corners: 6-5 in favor of Red Panda
• Yellow cards: 1 for each side

Match Implications

This win lifts Siniolchu FC to fifth place in the Sikkim S-League standings, while Red Panda FC remains in seventh. The result extends Siniolchu's unbeaten run to three matches, building momentum as they aim for a mid-table finish. Red Panda, conversely, have now lost four of their last five games and will need to regroup quickly to avoid being drawn into a relegation battle.