SAI edge gritty BFC

Sports Authority of India managed to ward off a late surge by Bengaluru FC to post a 3-2 win in an exciting BDFA Super Division league tie at the Bangalore Football Stadium here on Monday.

Despite the loss, BFC having played nine games, are placed at the top of the table with 14 points while SAI are in fifth position after 10 games with eight points.

 The first real chance of the game came to SAI in the fifth minute when Sudarshan, after being set up by Sridhar, fired a low shot into the far post, which was palmed away by a diving BFC goalkeeper Anthony.

Two minutes later, SAI again missed an opportunity when Raj Kiran laid a near perfect cross for the onrushing Sridhar, who blasted the ball horribly over the bar.

BFC finally paid for their woeful defending in the 10th minute. SAI winger Vignesh collected a loose ball in the opponent’s half and unleashed a ferocious shot from 25 yards into the net. 

Nishu of BFC had a good chance to equalise in the 30th minute when Kalinga made a darting run on the right flank and sent in a delightful cross, but he shot over the bar.

Both the teams went for an all-out attack in the second period. SAI striker Sabir Khan had a great chance to double the lead in the 55th minute but he slammed the ball over the bar after receiving a brilliant pass from Vignesh.

SAI then doubled their advantage through Raj Kiran, who rounded-off the onrushing goalkeeper to slot the ball home in the 60th minute following a counter-attack.

Soon after, SAI increased their tally to 3-0 when Kalinga, under pressure, fouled striker Rayak inside the box to give away a penalty. SAI’s Vijay made no mistake from the spot.
BFC got one back in the 79th minute after Mayank shot the ball low to the near post after controlling a low cross from Jonathan. They added another in the 89th minute through Manju, who headed in a fine cross sent in by Nishu.

With the score 3-2, SAI kept possession for the remaining period to run out winners.

Results: Super Division: Sports Authority of India: 3 (Vignesh D 10th, Raj Kiran 60th, Vijay 79th) bt Bengaluru FC: 2 (Mayank 80th, Manju 89th).

‘A’ Division: BUFC: 2 (Clivert 20th, Emmanuel 80 + 3) bt LRDE: 1 Stalin (29th).