Salgaocar edge past Mumbai FC in 5th round I-league encounter

Margao: Salgaocar held gamely to their first half goal as they edged past Mumbai FC to notch up their second win in the fifth round of the I-League, played at Nehru Stadium.

Mumbai FC who played more forceful game with long passes had more of the possession and had the first chance to forge ahead but Haroon Fakhruiddin`s 30-yard attempt missed the target. In the 11th minute, however, Ryuji Sueoka went down the middle and essayed a through pass to Anthony Barbosa whose curling shot beat `keeper Sanjiban Ghosh`s outstretched hands to find the far corner of the net. Salgaocar had a chance to increase the lead in the 33rd minute but Sueoka right footer from the top of the box after a pass from Tomba Singh was parried over by keeper Sanjiban in nick of time. Mumbai FC who had more of the ball possession dominated the later part of the first half and had the best chance to equalise in the 37th minute but Ebi Sukore fierce shot was saved by keeper Karanjt Singh to let Salgaocar lead 1-0 at half time. Mumbai who went more for the man than to the ball and referee Deepak Singh had a hard time in controlling the match as he showed four yellow card to bring the match under control. The visitors tried hard to find the equaliser but found keeper a hard nut to crack who tipped over a header from Haroon Fakhuddin early in the second half and also saved a penalty from substitute Abhishek Yadav who was brought down by Luciano inside the box. Karanjit was adjudged man-of-the-match for his stupendous performance. Salgaocar who scored their second win now have six points from five matches while Mumbai who suffered their fourth defeat remained on three points from as many matches. PTI