Kolkata: Mohammedan Sporting provisionally moved to the top of Group A, beating Southern Samity 3-1 in their CFL Premier Division match on Sunday.
Mohammedan Sporting, playing at home, went into the break with a 1-0 lead, thanks to Robinson Singh’s goal — set up brilliantly by Joseph Lalmuanawma — in the 33rd minute.
However, Southern came back into the contest on the back of a brilliant equalizer in the 65th minute.Launching a counter-attack, Alocious M moved up down the left as the rival defenders were desperately trying to retreat in time. With goalkeeper Subhajit Bhattacharjee coming out of his line to close the space, Alocious placed the ball in past him with poise and precision.
Hakim Ssengendo’s hosts, however, responded quickly and restored the lead within five minutes. This time, Israfil Dewan jabbed home the ball from close to notch up his fourth goal of the ongoing league, following Tanmoy Ghosh’s corner.
That goal appeared to have taken the wind out of Southern’s sails as Mohammedan Sporting came calling again and made it 3-1. Substitute Ashley Koli loped up down the left and took Southern defender Kartik Bisht’s challenge in his stride before whipping in a cross for Lalthankima to find the target with a sweetly timed right-footed volley.
With three wins, one draw and one loss, Mohammedan Sporting have 10 points and are leading the table, edging out Suruchi Sangha on goal difference. Suruchi Sangha, also with 10 points, have a game in hand.
Southern stay in the bottom of the table with 4 points from 5 games.
Top three teams from the group will advance to the championship round.
SUNDAY’S CFL RESULTS: Mohammedan Sporting 3 Southern Samity 1; Measurers Club 3 Pathachakra 2; Aryan Club 1 BSS SC 1.