Reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant confronted some anxious moments earlier than prevailing over I-League winners Punjab FC 2-0 for its second successive win within the Durand Cup right here on Monday.
On a rain-drenched night, a fortunate Mohun Bagan took a Twenty third-minute lead after Punjab FC’s centre-back Melroy Assissi slipped in an personal aim.
Hugo Bumous (forty eighth) then utilised Liston Colaco’s inch-perfect cross from the left to ship the ultimate blow.
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The win additionally put the Mariners in advantageous stead forward of the season’s much-anticipated Kolkata derby towards East Bengal on August 12.
Mohun Bagan now has six factors going into its concluding group A fixture towards arch-rivals East Bengal which has one level after its draw towards Bangladesh Army FT.
Mohun Bagan appeared rusty within the first half earlier than it slowly obtained into its groove.
Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith additionally stood out, with an excellent second-half save from their Slovenian recruit Luka Majcen.
The Punjab outfit, which is the primary I-League crew to get promoted to top-tier ISL, did effectively in patches however Mohun Bagan’s defence managed to carry on to its lead.
Up towards the I-League champions, Mohun Bagan coach Juan Ferrando opted for a close to full-strength aspect with Brendan Hamill, Hugo Boumous and Glan Martins within the beginning XI.
The membership additionally handed the Mariners’ debut cap to proficient India defender Anwar Ali, whereas Manvir Singh and Liston Colaco manned issues up entrance.
Mohun Bagan had its first likelihood within the nineteenth minute when Martins’ shot was blocked by a Punjab FC defender.
