JCT edge out Mahindras by solitary goal in NFL encounter

Ludhiana, May 2 (UNI) JCT Phagwara shocked defending champions Mahindra United, Mumbai by a solitary goal in the crucial 16th round match of the National Football League (NFL) at the Guru Nanak stadim here today.

It was once again the ever reliable Nigerian striker Chidi Edeh who scored for JCT in the 71st minute to shatter the dreams of the defending champions and to move closer to league leaders Dempo Sports Club who have so far collected 32 points.

With this win, the millmen jumped up two places to the third position with 25 points, behind Mahindra who have 27 points. Churchill Brothers and East Bengal have 23 points each after 16 games.

The match began on a fast pace, giving a clear indication that both teams were desprate to go for a win. Mahindras had the edge in the first half, but Karanjit Singh under the JCT bar deserves full credit for the victory as he brought off a number of good saves.

The second half belonged to the millmen as Chidi and his strike partner Sunil Chhetri, backed by Rennedy Singh, raided the Mahindra citadel on a number of occasions. However, Roy Choudhary under the Mahindra bar kept the menacing Chidi and Chhetri at bay and brought of a couple of good saves.

However in the 71st minute, a lapse by the Mahindra defence cost them dearly. An unmarked Chidi received a pass from the deep defence and dashing towards the rival goal he unleashed a low shot that beat the Mahindra custodian.

With this victory, JCT avenged their defeat at the hands of the defending champions in the away encounter at Mumbai. Chidi now has nine goals to his credit in the NFL while Chhetri who is line for the golden boot has 10 goals.

UNI