NEW DELHI: Mohun Bagan Super Giant returned to winning ways with a 3-1 - after falling behind, triumph over Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 on Thursday, December 26, 2024.

Punjab FC struck first, courtesy of a great strike from Ricky Shabong, whereas the Mariners retaliated with a strong second-half performance which saw Key Performer of the Match, Alberto Rodriguez scores a brace while Jamie Maclaren converted from the spot.

In the 12th minute, the visitors were caught ball-watching and Punjab FC made them pay, courtesy of a brilliant solo effort from Ricky Shabong.

The young midfielder found a pocket of space on the left flank and drove forward. He eventually nestled the ball into the net past Kaith as the defenders failed to close down the space in the penalty area.

The second half started strongly for the visitors as Rodriguez rose highest from a corner delivered by Cummings to turn in the equaliser in the 48th minute.

Three minutes later, things turned from bad to worse for Punjab FC as Ezequiel Vidal was penalised for a challenge on Liston Colaco. He was initially booked for the foul and was later sent off for dissent, reducing the hosts to 10 men.

Jose Molina’s men were rewarded for their persistent pressure as the referee pointed to the spot after Anirudh Thapa was brought down in the penalty area. Maclaren stood up to the spot and hammered it home, handing Mohun Bagan Super Giant the lead in the 63rd minute.

Eventually, they scored the third goal in the 69th minute when Thapa turned creator following a corner and found Rodriguez in space in the penalty area. The Spaniard made no mistake in completing his brace.

Both teams will now play in the new year, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant returning home to host Hyderabad FC next on January 2 whereas Punjab FC will lock horns against Kerala Blasters FC on January 5.

(Courtesy: ISL Media Team)