I-LEAGUE Media Team

MUMBAI: Ten-men Mumbai FC held Pune FC to a 1-1 draw in a pulsating match of the Hero I-League at the Cooperage football ground on Sunday.

Playing with a man down for more than an hour, Mumbai were leading for 75 minutes following Taisuke Matsugae’s wonder goal. However, they could not withstand the incessant pressure applied by the visitors.

Pune would be kicking themselves for not taking advantage of being a man up, but they were up against a resilient Mumbai side who defended doggedly till the final whistle. Sampath Kutty Mani was shown a direct red card in the 29th minute for a rash tackle on Ganesh Dhanpal.

That moment changed the course of the tie as Mumbai were having an upper hand over their neighbours, especially after Taisuke gave them the lead in fourth minute. The hard-working Japanese spotted Arup Debnath wandering out of his position while taking a free-kick from his own half. Taisuke rode his luck and hurled one.

His ambitious effort caught Debnath off guard and found back of the net. His freakish attempt was applauded by Pune FC coach Karim Bencherifa as well while the 3115 strong crowd at Cooperage cheered in disbelief.

Kutty Mani’s red card turned the tide in Pune’s favour but an injury to their key striker Darko Nikac put them in a spot. Nikac, playing hid first official match since returning from aa long injury lay-off, hurt his same ankle and had to be stretchered off. His absence hurt Pune dearly as they failed to test Mumbai goalkeeper Nidhin Lal enough.

The Second half was all about Mumbai’s defence and Pune’s attack, resembling a training session. Mumbai put all men behind the ball to protect their lead and defended deep.

However, in 76th minute Arata Izumi cushioned a header towards Raju Yumnam, who volleyed it home. Pune resorted to long shots and crosses but could not find the winner.

Hero of the Match – Taisuke Matsugae.