I-LEAGUE Media Team

PUNE: The first ever Pune Derby did live up to its billing as the teams shared spoils in a 1-1 draw. The game, which saw both sides reduce to 10 men, had all the elements of a typical derby game.

The “hosts” Pune FC got off to a dream start courtesy of an early Fanai Lalrempuia goal in the 4th minute.

Mehrajuddin Wadoo was caught out of position leaving a gaping hole on the left wing. Lalrempuia took advantage of this space and made a run from the wing towards the centre calling for the ball. His run was acknowledged by Ryuji Sueoka. The Japanese waited momentarily before threading a perfectly weighted through ball towards the Mizo who calmly rolled the ball past a hapless Arindam Bhattacharya.

The “visitors” did show some glimpses of attack but only without fruition. Syed Rahim Nabi almost drew level minutes later when he wriggled past 3 odd players only to aim his straight at the keeper’s throat who brushed the ball aside with ease.

The Red Lizards suffered another setback in the 19th minute when Edgar Marcelino had to be stretchered off. The Brazilian playmaker who was looking sharp had to be taken off after he took a knock in a collision with Bobby Hassell while trying to win the ball.

The Lions finally drew level in the 32nd minute when they turned defense into attack. After seeing a cross from Hmar fly just over, the Bharat FC custodian quickly sent the ball upfield. Lester Fernandes made a purposeful burst down the wing beating 2 players before looping in a good cross which was headed in by Kris Bright.

The teams came out in the second half with great intent, but none of them were able to break the deadlock despite coming close on several occasions. Haokip came agonisingly close to pulling off a stunner when his curling shot whizzed just past the upright. On the other end of the pitch, Bobby Hassell combined with Kris Bright only to see his shot roll just wide.

The game started to descend into a physical duel towards the end. Mehrajuddin Waddoo had to be sent off after being booked twice within a span of 5 minutes for two cynical fouls. Just when Pune FC looked to have gotten the upper hand, Dhanpal Ganesh ended up stamping Syed Rahim Nabi and had to be given the marching orders.

Bharat FC leapfrogged Shillong Lajong to the 8th position while Pune FC remained at the 4th position.

Hero of the Match – Romuald Boco (Bharat FC)