An early first-half tap-in goal by Lalhmangaihsanga Ralte was cancelled out by a second-half strike from Shijin Thadhayouse as the hosts held the two-time champions to a draw.
The fixture promises to be an exciting one as both teams head into the match high on momentum. The Desert Warriors are unbeaten in their last two matches, picking up a 3-1 win against Sudeva Delhi FC in their previous game. NEROCA registered three points in their last match, defeating Mumbai
Striker Jourdain Fletcher's thumping strike early in the second half won all three points for the Orange Brigade, who had as many as 11 shots on target in the entire match.
On the other hand, the Red Machines have endured a tough beginning to this campaign, suffering losses at home to Rajasthan United FC (1-2) and Sreenidi Deccan FC (2-3), before playing out a 1-1 draw away to Mumbai Kenkre FC.
An early first-half goal by Azfar Noorani was cancelled out late in the second half by Lalkhawpuimawia as Churchill Brothers finally opened their account in the points table in their third outing.
Both sides head into the contest on the back of solid wins in their previous matches. Sreenidi Deccan edged out Churchill Brothers 3-2 in a thrilling contest in Bambolim on Sunday. TRAU put on a flawless performance at home to beat Mumbai Kenkre 3-0 on Monday.
Both sides came out without a point in their respective previous fixtures. Kenkre, however, did begin their campaign with a 2-1 win away to Sudeva Delhi, while Churchill Brothers will be hungry to turn things around after suffering losses in their first two matches so far
A first-half strike by Nana Poku followed by a double strike by Komron Tursunov in the second half helped TRAU pick up three points with a commanding performance.