(Football news) A narrow win over SC East Bengal at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim ensured that Jamshedpur FC climbed on top of the Indian Super League table with 19 points from 11 games, two points ahead of second place Kerala Blasters who have played a game less. A late goal by Ishan Pandita in the 88th minute was all it took to secure the three points for the Red Miners.
Both teams created half chances early on in the match with very little to separate the two sides. Arindam Bhattacharja was forced to make a save after Murray attempted to score when he found space behind the defensive line. However, both teams failed to create any major scoring opportunities before the half hour mark. In the final stages of the first half, Boris Singh had the opportunity to break the deadlock after finding himself unmarked inside the box but failed to hit the target with his header and it went over the crossbar.
Even though Jamshedpur FC dominated possession and created more attacking opportunities, they failed to get on the scoresheet as the score ended 0-0 at the half-time break. The Men of Steel began the second half strongly as Jordan Murray hit the woodwork with a looping header while defender Adil Khan was forced to be substituted at the hour mark due to an injury and was replaced by Darren Sidoel. Murray had another shot denied by Arindam Bhattacharja who parried the shot with his strong right hand.
Jamshedpur FC attacked with greater urgency and intensity in the final 15 minutes and Murray yet again failed to capitalize on the opportunity with a weak right footed strike in the 85th minute. However, Ishan Pandita then came to the rescue for the Red Miners after Greg Stewart’s corner was met with a precise header and went into the back of the net, ensuring Jamshedpur FC clinched the three points.
Jamshedpur FC will next face Hyderabad FC at the Athletic Stadium on Monday, 17th January while SC East Bengal will take on Derrick Pereira’s FC Goa on 19th January (Wednesday) at the same venue.
Also read: Kerala Blasters aiming for 10 wins in a row in match against Odisha FC
