Kozhikode: Gokulam FC now have completed wins over both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan and surprisingly both of it’s consecutive victories have dented title hopes of both the Kolkata clubs.
1-2 was the scoreline for East Bengal as it was for Mohun Bagan five days ago. Only difference was that both sides ended with 10 men after their respective captains was given marching orders for a second-bookable offence.
East Bengal though remained in the third place but are five points far from Neroca, who stand on 31 points after playing a game more. Gokulam notched a rung up and now have 16 points from 14 matches, well out of the relegation zone.
Katsumi Yusa had put the Red and Golds ahead from the spot-kick at the brink of half-time. It was after defender Emmanuel Chigozie had barged into Cavin Lobo, who was put through on goal by the Japanese. The referee made no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot and Yusa stood up.
But Gokulam wasted no time in restoring parity as play resumed, equalising in the 51st minute. Mohammed Irshad found Henry Kisekka with a long ball, who in turn released Kivi Zhimomi unmarked to slot the ball home.
Chances came thick and fast for the visitors but their wastefulness up-front once again came to the fore and Gokulam made them pay with another goal in the 87th minute.
They had struck the post twice in the space of five minutes but not learning from their mistake, East Bengal were punished when Arjun Jayaraj ran clear. His shot was well off target and was aimed at Salman, but Salam Ranjan Singh struck out a leg, sending the ball into goal.
East Bengal’s hopes of their maiden title crushed off soon after and although Gokulam were reduced to 10-men when Mohammed Irshad was send off, the Red and Golds failed to capitalise. Instead captain Arnab Mondal was given marching orders, one that he earned for losing control on himself.