ITBP FT held Punjab FC to a goalless draw in a Group D of Durand Cup at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar. Punjab FC was wasteful in front of goal, failing to convert its chances as ITBP showcased some resilient defending to secure a hard earned point.
Both teams have four points from two matches and will now face Bodoland FC in their remaining group stage matches.
Punjab FC created two chances in the opening exchanges of the match with Ricky Shabong’s effort from outside the box being blocked by the defence. Moments later, Vishal Yadav failed to divert a low cross after Muhammed Suhail found the young striker at the end of a run.
Leon Augustine of Punjab then found himself free inside the box at the end of a looping cross but his header did not have the power to trouble Ugesh Lama in goal.
Punjab dodged a bullet midway through the second half when goalkeeper Ravi Kumar was closed down by Seiminthang Haokip, but luckily the ball deflected for a corner.
East Bengal will take on Namdhari FC in the second contest of the day.
