Dempo eke out controversial win
Riding on two controversial decisions, an under-par Dempo SC overcame United Sikkim FC 2-1 in their I-League match at Paljor Stadium here on Sunday.
Dempo SC scored through their foreign players, Koko Sakibo and Ryuji Sueoka. While Sakibo gave the defending champions the lead with a powerful header from close range in the 21st minute, Sueoka converted a penalty in the second half injury time to ensure Dempo SC return home with full three points.
In Pune, a Mickey Fernandes own goal gave Mohun Bagan their first win of the season at Balewadi Sports Complex stadium.
What seemed like a clean goal from Bagan’s Nigerian striker Odafa Okolie initially was later confirmed as an own goal by Air India’s Fernandes.
Sporting Clube de Goa came from behind to snatch full points with a 2-1 win away at Shillong Lajong FC.
The hosts struck the opening goal when Renedy Singh’s cross in the 44th minute found Friday Gbeneme netting with a quick and precise header.
Changing their tactics, the Goan side levelled the scoreboard in the 53rd minute through Kalu Ogba. Then 18 minutes into the second half, Dawson Fernandes sealed the fate of Lajong who had not scored against them in the last four matches they played.
Meanwhile, in Margao, Salgaocar Sports Club had to settle for a goalless draw against Pailan Arrows.
After Karim Bencherifa’s exit this is Salgaocar’s first match and the young boys from Arrows did well enough to snatch a point in an away game.
