Late goals by Ricky John Shabong (83') and Ravi Bahadur Rana (86') helped India U-16 earn a 2-2 draw against Bangkok Glass FC U-17 on Tuesday.
On their month-long exposure tour in Thailand as part of preparations ahead of the AFC U-16 Championship, the India Colts were coming into the fixture after a 2-0 win over Buriram United U-17.
India goalkeeper Lalbiakhlua Jongte was tested early on by Bangkok Glass and he also pulled off an incredible save in the 14th minute but that didn't stop the opponents from taking the lead in the 21st minute and doubling it just three minutes later.
The Indian youngsters, who were feeling the heat, attempted to hit back. Harpreet Singh's goalward header missed the target by inches at the half-hour mark and Bhuvnesh Shindre failed to slot in Ridge DeMello's cross from close range a few minutes later as India went into the break trailing by two goals.
In the 74th minute, Vikram's shot came off the post after a rebound from substitute Rohit Danu's effort that was thwarted by Bangkok Glass goalkeeper fell to his feet.
The redemption process was fueled in the 83rd minute when Ricky found the back of the net. Ravi made it 2-2 three minutes later. However, even with the momentum in their favour, India were not able to bag the winner before the full-time whistle.
The Indian U-16 national team's next test will be against the Thailand U-16 national team on July 20.
India U-16's starting lineup: Lalbiakhlua Jongte (GK), Shabas Ahammed Moothedath, Gurkirat Singh, Harpreet Singh, Moirangthem Thoiba Singh, Ricky John Shabong, Givson Singh Moirangthem, Bekey Oram, Vikram Pratap Singh, Ridge Melvin DeMello, Bhuvnesh Shindre.
