Bengaluru are I-League champs
Bengaluru, April 17
Bengaluru FC came up with a fine performance here on Sunday to beat Salgaocar SC 2-0 and claim their second I-league trophy in three years. Needing a victory to clinch the title, they were propelled by two strikes in either half by Eugeneson Lyngdoh and Seminlen Doungel. Their first I-League title had come in their debut season in 2013.
Bengaluru have 32 points from 15 matches. Second-placed Mohun Bagan, the outgoing title holders, have 27 points from as many matches. Salgaocar are sixth with 16 points from 15 games.
Bengaluru were scheduled to clash against Mohun Bagan at Siliguri on April 23rd in what was potentially a title decider. But Sunday’s win renders that match purposeless.
Bengaluru began aggressively, looking to pick up an early goal. Lyngdoh did just that in the eighth minute, shooting from 25 yards and catching goalkeeper Karanjit Singh out of position. Salgaocar were forced to come forward and they threatened to score several times.
Bengaluru remained 1-0 ahead at the break. They held on to the lead, though Salgaocar’s midfielder Jakichand Singh caused a few problems after half-time.
Doungel scored the insurance goal in the 87th minute to ensure three points and the championship for coach Ashley Westwood’s men. Chhetri did the hard work, breaking down the left flank to open up the Salgaocar defence. He squared for Doungel to complete the move with a regulation tap-in to start the celebrations.
In Mumbai, Mumbai FC defeated Shillong Lajong FC 2-1 in a relegation battle at the Cooperage Ground in another clash. Mumbai FC broke the deadlock in the 41st minute through veteran Steven Dias who scored with a free-kick. Mumbai lead 1-0 at the break. — IANS
