JOIN USHindustan Aeronautics Sports Club (HASC) scored a hard-fought 4-2 win over Rail Wheel Factory (RWF) in an action-packed BDFA Super Division League tie at the Bangalore Football Stadium here on Wednesday.
The Aircraftmen also leapfrogged Army Service Corps (ASC) to the top of the league table with their fifth successive victory. HASC have 15 points from six matches, while ASC are on 13 points from six games. The clash between the top two sides on Sunday could very well decide the title race. Meanwhile, RWF remain on eight points from seven matches.
HASC shot into the lead in the fifth minute with R C Prakash’s long-ranger taking a deflection off RWF defender Madan and goalkeeper Dilip Kumar made a mess of a not-so-difficult stop.
HASC dominated the midfield and action was mostly concentrated on the rival area. However, RWF brought life into the match with Wilfred heading home off a corner-kick in the 31st minute.
RWF paid dearly for allowing HASC plenty of space in the midfield as Jagdish slammed a powerful shot into the top right corner with two minutes to go for the break.
HASC consolidated their position in the 55th minute with substitute D Raju firing home from the edge of the area. However, RWF hit back in the very next minute through Prakash, who scored off a direct free-kick.
HASC’s fourth goal in the 65th minute was mired in controversy. RWF defender Sivakumar made a goal-line save and Dilip in the RWF goal was down on the ground when R C Prakash tapped in from close range.
However, referee Andrew allowed the goal amid protest by the RWF players, who did well to keep their emotions in check.
HASC defender Ramesh got the marching orders in the 68th minute for his second booking of the day after a nasty challenge on Vijay, who was stretchered off. The Aircraftmen had to play the last 22 minutes with ten men but RWF could not cash in on the advantage.
RWF coach Muraleedharan was critical of the standard of refereeing. “The fourth goal changed the complexion of the game. The referee failed to notice that the goalkeeper was injured,” he said.
Jawahar Union drubbed Bangalore Kickers 8-0 in the ‘A’ Division. Arun scored three (19th, 22nd, 57th), while Rahul struck a brace (42nd, 59th). Saravana (4th), Barry (25th) and Desai (33rd) netted one apiece.
Thursday’s matches: ‘A’ Division: CIL vs BUFC (1.00 pm)
Super Division: KGF Academy vs KSP (3.00 pm)