Match Report: Sikkim Police Edge Sikkim Boys Club in Seven-Goal Thriller

The Indian Sikkim S-League served up a pulsating encounter on 16 July 2026 as Sikkim Police narrowly defeated Sikkim Boys Club 4-3 in a goal-fest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. Played under the floodlights at Paljor Stadium with a 4:30 PM kick‑off, the match lived up to its billing as a clash between two of the league’s most attack‑minded sides.

Match Overview

Sikkim Police entered the contest with a reputation for disciplined defending, but it was their attacking flair that stole the show. The home side raced into a 3-0 lead midway through the first half, only for Sikkim Boys Club to mount a spirited comeback that saw them level the scores at 3-3 with 20 minutes remaining. A dramatic winner from Sikkim Police in the 82nd minute sealed all three points, leaving the Sikkim Boys Club with nothing despite a valiant effort.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Sikkim Police captain and striker Kabir Tamang opened the scoring with a powerful header from a corner.
• 29th minute: Winger Rohit Gurung doubled the lead with a curling shot from the edge of the box after a swift counter‑attack.
• 38th minute: Midfielder Sonam Bhutia made it 3-0 with a clinical finish, seemingly putting the game beyond reach.
• 45+2 minute: Sikkim Boys Club pulled one back just before half‑time through Anil Chettri, giving them hope.
• 55th minute: The visitors struck again when Tenzin Dukpa volleyed home from a cross, making it 3-2.
• 71st minute: Bishal Rai completed the comeback with a composed finish, leveling the score at 3-3 and sending the traveling fans into raptures.
• 82nd minute: Kabir Tamang struck his second of the match, a low drive after a goalmouth scramble, to restore Sikkim Police’s lead and ultimately win the game.

Tactical Story

Head coach Dhan Bhadur set up Sikkim Police in a 4-3-3 formation, pressing high and exploiting the wings early. The plan worked brilliantly as quick transitions left Sikkim Boys Club’s backline exposed. However, after taking a 3-0 lead, Sikkim Police dropped too deep, allowing their opponents to dominate possession in the second half. Sikkim Boys Club switched to a 3-5-2, overloading the midfield and using long balls to bypass the press. The equaliser seemed inevitable until a late defensive lapse from a corner handed the home side the winner.

Standout Players

• Kabir Tamang (Sikkim Police): The captain’s brace and leadership were decisive. His movement off the ball caused constant problems for the visitors’ defense.
• Anil Chettri (Sikkim Boys Club): Scored the crucial goal before half‑time and was a constant threat on the break.
• Sonam Bhutia (Sikkim Police): Dominated the midfield in the first hour, providing energy and one assist to go with his goal.

Table Impact

The win moves Sikkim Police into the top half of the Indian Sikkim S-League standings, while Sikkim Boys Club remain in mid‑table but will rue missed chances. With both teams showing attacking intent, this match will be remembered as one of the most entertaining of the season so far.