CFL 2018: East Bengal edged past Rainbow in a close encounter to regain the top spot

Al Amna was adjudged Man of the Match in today’s game against Rainbow. Image Source: XtraTime

Kolkata: City giant East Bengal edged past NBP Rainbow A.C by a solitary penalty goal from Lalram Chullova in a crucial Calcutta Premier League Premier A match at their home ground. Though there was a bit controversy regarding the penalty but the Red & Gold Brigade has now reached the top spot again as they replaced their arch-rivals Mohun Bagan. Both the teams have 16 points from 6 matches  but East Bengal is ahead due to goal difference.




In the 91st minute of the game, Rainbow forward Paltu Das failed to score an easy goal despite of getting the East Bengal goalkeeper Rakshit Dagar alone in the box. He hit the ball with his toe and that’s why it went over the bar. Though at first the home side missed the easiest chance as he hit a free header to the wrong side. The Red & Gold Brigade broke the deadlock on the 27th minute of the game via penalty. Sourav Roy pushed Surabuddin Mollick inside the box and the referee awarded a penalty to the Red & Gold Brigade. The Rainbow footballers were furious with the decision. The referee showed a yellow card to Rainbow goalkeeper Dibyendu Sarker who was not happy with the decision.




In the first half after heavy rain East Bengal played brilliantly as the ball was travelling very fast on the ground. But in the second half as the ground got heavier, the home side looked a bit down and Rainbow footballers played really well in this span. Star Syrian midfielder Mahmoud Al Amna was the star for the Red & gold Brigade as he played a key part in the midfield. He was adjudged Man of the Match too for his top performance. The East Bengal defence showed a poor show today and their Costa Rican World cupper Jhonny Acosta too looked a bit concerned about the defence line from the bench.