Xtra Time Web Desk: Goals from Vanlalbiaa Chhangte (27’) and super sub Gani Ahmed Nigam (67’) helped Mohammedan Sporting beat Bhawanipore 2-0 in the I League qualifiers held at the Kalyani stadium on Friday. The win tonight guaranteed the Black Panthers a place in the I League 2020-21 after a gap of 7 years.
Mohammedan took the lead mid-way through the first half. The move began with some beautiful build-up play between Chhangte and Willis Plaza down the right flank, with the latter finding SK Faiaz inside the box with a pinpoint through-pass. The forward laid it off for an onrushing Chhangte with a delectable first touch and the winger rounded Shilton to score and give his side the lead in the 27th minute.
Down by a goal Bhawanipore sparked into life as they looked to find the equalizer before the break. Enjamul Hoque wasted a useful crossing opportunity in the 32nd minute and five minutes later, Adjah came close again — as he latched on to a chipped through-ball and looked to chip an advancing Priyant Singh but his shot only found the side netting.
Mohammedan extended their lead in the 67th minute of the match through substitute Gani Nigam. Safiul Rahaman swung in a free-kick from the right, which came off Monotosh Chakladar and reached Nigam at the far post, who chested the ball calmly and slotted home through Shilton’s legs to extend his side’s advantage.
The win takes Mohammedan to 9 points with one match still to play. Bhawanipore also have one game remaining but owing to better head to head results, Mohammedan will qualify.