Kolkata: A suicidal goal by Pune FC helped
Shillong Lajong register a 2-1 win and make it to the 115th
IFA Shield semifinals at Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Saturday.
The Shillong outfit finished behind group B toppers Mohun
Bagan to set up a last-four clash against holders Churchill
Brothers.
Needing a point to make the cut, Pune FC suffered a big
blow in the 27th minute when Caitano Costa's header went into
their own net.
Off a move down the left, Shillong earned a free kick
that opened way for the opening goal of the match.
With the ball floated into the box, Lajong's Zenith
Mashangva along with Costa, Selwyn Fernandes went for the
header together.
But in the bargain, Costa's header went into their own
net.
Pune FC revived their hopes in the 34th minute when
Mandjou Keita finished with a one touch lob over the advancing
goalkeeper.
Nearing the end of the first half, Lallawmzuala scored
two minutes into the added time, which eventually turned out
to be the match-winner with a goalless second period.
Lajong had an identical tally of eight points with Bagan
but the Shillong outfit had to settle for second spot in
group B on basis of goal difference.
Pune FC ended their campaign by finishing third with six
points.
Semifinal line-up
Churchill vs Lajong; Southern Samity v Mohun Bagans (both
matches on March 28).
PTI
First Published: Saturday, March 26, 2011, 20:30