Minerva extend BFC's winless run

Bengaluru: Bengaluru FC’s winless run in the I-League stretched to four matches as Minerva Punjab FC held the defending champions to a 1-1 draw on Saturday.

A late own goal from Sandesh Jhingan cancelled out Sunil Chhetri’s opener as BFC’s hopes for a title challenge was dealt a heavy blow.

The Sree Kanteerava Stadium was bouncing just three weeks ago but there was few hints of that on the day as the home side continued their lackluster performance which has them fifth in the table with 11 points from seven games.

With injuries and suspension as long as a grocery list, Jhingan was handed his first start at the centre of the defence while Sena Ralte was brought in at left back in place of Keegan Pereira.

The match started with a classy touch as Minerva players unfurled a banner tipping their hats to the West Block Blues as the best fans in the country.

In what was a rather lethargic affair, BFC had the lion share of possession but failed to convert it many into goal scoring chances. The visitors for their part stuck to the basics by defending deep with little room between the lines and focusing their attacks on rare counters and set-pieces.

Elsewhere, DSK Shivajians rode on Sanju Pradhan and Shane McFaul’s goals to beat Shillong Lajong FC 2-1, ending their four-match winning streak at home in the I-league while in Shillong Chennai City FC defeated Mumbai FC 2-1.