CALCUTTA: Defending champions Mohun Bagan delivered a commanding statement in the city derby, thrashing Mohammedan Sporting Club 5–1 on Saturday at the Salt Lake Stadium to climb to the top of the Indian Super League standings.
Robson Robinho starred with a brace, while Jamie Maclaren, Manvir Singh, and Dimitri Petratos also found the net in a clinical attacking display. Lalthankima scored the lone goal for Mohammedan SC.
Early Shock, Swift Response
Despite Mohun Bagan’s early dominance, it was Mohammedan SC who stunned the home crowd in the 12th minute. From a well-delivered corner, defender Lalthankima soared above the defense and powered home a superb header. Overcome with emotion, he broke down in tears after giving his side a surprise lead against the run of play.
Mohun Bagan, however, had already been dictating proceedings. Orchestrated by Jason Cummings, the Mariners pressed relentlessly but initially struggled to convert their chances.
Seven-Minute Blitz Turns the Game
The equalizer arrived in the 22nd minute, triggering a devastating spell of attacking football. Mohun Bagan struck twice more in the 27th and 29th minutes, completing a remarkable turnaround with three goals in seven minutes. The trio of Maclaren, Manvir Singh, and Cummings combined fluidly, repeatedly exposing defensive frailties, with Mohammedan’s goalkeeper enduring a particularly difficult spell.
By halftime, Mohun Bagan held a commanding 3–1 lead, having completely seized control after the early setback.
Champions Show Their Class
The second half saw the defending champions maintain their dominance, adding two more goals to seal an emphatic 5–1 victory. Robinho’s brace underlined the attacking depth at Mohun Bagan’s disposal, while Petratos added further gloss to an already one-sided contest.
Mohammedan SC, after their bright start, struggled to withstand the sustained pressure and were undone by defensive lapses and clinical finishing.
The emphatic derby win not only reinforced Mohun Bagan’s title credentials but also propelled the Mariners to the summit of the ISL points table in style.
(The contributor is a veteran journalist based in Calcutta)
