Indian Bank beat Tollygunj 1-0

Chennai:

An opportunistic goal by international Sabir Pasha helped Indian Bank, Chennai, beat Tollygunj Agragami, Kolkatta, by a solitary goal in their league encounter in the first stage of the National Football League yesterday. It turned out to be thrilling encounter as the teams backed by solid defence looked forward to getting into the lead early in the game and then defend their citadels. In this, the bankmen were lucky to achieve the goal. After the teams going full steam for drawing the first blood, Indian Bank cashed in on the opportunity in the 17th minute when V K Haresh's Square Pass from the right was neatly headed in the Pasha. Though the bankmen regrouped in good numbers to thwart the frequent forays of Tollygunj, it was its (Indian Bank) goal keeper Sebestain Netto who deserved full credit for his heroics under the bar. But for Netto's quick clearances and reflex to come up with superb saves, at least on 10 occasions, saved the day for the bankmen. With this win, Indian Bank have 11 points from eight matches with three more to go. In their next tie, Indian Bank plays Mohun Bagan on January 25, while Tollygunj, who had upset the champions Mohun Bagan in their last encounter, have seven points from six matches. Tollygunj are slated to meet HAL, Bangalore, on January 12. (PTI)