SC East Bengal and Bengaluru FC played a 1-1 draw in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim.
Semboi Haokip (28’) opened the scoring with a diving header for SC East Bengal while Sourav Das (OG 55’) handed the equaliser to the opposition with an own goal.
East Bengal played like a more organized team, defensive shape was solid and brilliant, not allowing the Bengaluru FC wingbacks, Ashique Kuruniyan and Udanta Singh, time and space to initiate attacks. The Red & Gold Brigade almost doubled the lead on 40 minutes, but Daniel Chukwu couldn’t connect with an inch-perfect cross from Lalrinliana Hnamte.
SCEB had a golden opportunity to probably seal the deal in the 81’ but it was not taken. On the other hand, Sunil Chhetri had a wonderful opportunity in the 72’ but Hira Mondal made a brilliant goal line clearance.
The result extends SCEB’s winless run to nine matches while BFC’s hopes of securing playoffs qualification suffer another blow.
However, the spirited performance will lift the mood in the SC East Bengal camp as interim coach Renedy Singh embarks on a rebuilding job in what until now has been a wretched season.
SC East Bengal will be next in action against leaders Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday while Bengaluru FC also plays the Islanders in their next game at the PJN Stadium on Monday.
Adil Khan won the Hero of the Match Award.
In the next match, ATK Mohun Bagan will face Hyderabad FC.
SC East Bengal (Starting XI)
Arindam Bhattacharja (GK/C), Tomislav Mrcela, Adil Khan, Joyner Lourenco, Hira Mondal, Wahengbam Luwang, Sourav Das, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Naorem Singh, Thongkhosiem Haokip, Daniel Chukwu.
Bengaluru FC (Starting XI)
Gurpreet Sandhu (GK/C), Alan Costa, Ashique Kuruniyan, Parag Shrivas, Roshan Naorem, Bruno Silva, Jayesh Rane, Suresh Wangjam, Prince Ibara, Udanta Singh, Cleiton Silva.
Picture Courtesy: Indian Super League Twitter
