HOWRAH (India): Jiten Murmu came off the bench to score as Mohammedan Sporting won their second in as may matches after beating Bengaluru FC Reserves 1-0 in the 2nd Division League here on Tuesday.
Home fans who showed up hoping to see a dominant performance from the Black Panthers had little to cheer about as the first half was all about a scrappy affair.
The hosts looked the most likely to open the scoring with John Chidi threatening in attack, well supported by Vanlalbiaa Chhangte and Satyam Sharma.
Despite some good build-up play and probing runs, the Black Panthers couldn’t get behind the well organised Bengaluru defence and the particularly impressive Lalhmunamawia at the centre of it.
At the other end Akashdeep Singh and Adavait led the Bengaluru offensive efforts but like their opponents, couldn’t find a way to break down that final line.
Following a scoreless opening half which failed to produce a clear goal-scoring opportunity, the hosts showed far more urgency and took the lead in the 48th minute when Jiten made a smart run in behind the Bengaluru back four to slot past a helpless Saron from Chidi’s pass.
The setback served to awaken Bengaluru from their slumber and they threw players forward with abandon, in search of an equalizer.
Naushad Moosa’s charges fought hard to not only keep themselves in the match but to try and find a goal which would help them secure at least a deserved point.
Although Bengaluru remained determined to get back into the game, unfortunately the front line continued to fire off-target while Mohammedan SC started to establish a comfortable rhythm whenever they found themselves in possession making it tough for their opponents to impose their game.
Meanwhile, Mohammedan looked dangerous on the counter with Musa missing a golden chance to double his side’s advantage, however, at the end it didn’t matter as the Jiten’s lone goal proved to be enough to decide the thrilling encounter.
Black Panthers will face Chennaiyin FC Reserves on February 20.
