East Bengal defeat Gokulam Kerala to maintain perfect IWL record

Kolkata, May 3 (PTI) East Bengal FC continued their dominant run in Indian Women’s League with a 2-1 win over Gokulam Kerala FC here on Sunday.

The hosts made an early breakthrough in the sixth minute, when Fazila Ikwaput latched onto a long ball and produced a composed volley, chipping it over the advancing goalkeeper from outside the box.

The second goal came in the 65th minute when Resty Nanziri cut in from the left and set up Ikwaput centrally. The forward finished with precision into the bottom corner to double the lead.

Gokulam pulled one back from a corner in the 70th minute after East Bengal goalkeeper Elangbam Chanu spilled the ball, allowing Shubhangi Singh to react quickest and slot home.

Despite late efforts from both sides, East Bengal

held on for the win.

The Moshal Girls remain unbeaten at the top of the table with 27 points, while Gokulam Kerala FC are fifth with 10.

In another match, SETHU FC registered a 2-1 victory against Sribhumi FC.

The opening goal came in the 12th minute when Nirmala Devi delivered a long ball into the box, and Sumati Kumari rose to head it into the net.

The lead was extended following a loose ball situation, where Sumati Kumari’s attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba, before S Lynda Kom reacted quickest to slot home.

Sribhumi reduced the deficit in the 37th minute after Veronica Appiah was brought down inside the box. Philomena Abakah converted the penalty to make it 2-1.

Later, Kickstart FC, Karnataka outclassed SESA Football Academy Kickstart took the lead in the 16th minute when TH Babysana Devi’s long ball found Kiran Pisda on the right, who delivered a cross for Emem Peace Essien to finish from close range.

The advantage was doubled in the 27th minute as Pisda drove forward before setting up Saru Limbu, who placed her shot into the bottom right corner.

In the 66th minute, Essien was fouled inside the box, resulting in a penalty. Babysana Devi stepped up and converted to seal the result.

In another match of the day, Nita Football Academya and Garhwal United FC played out a goalless draw. PTI UNG ATK