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Xtra Time Web Desk: Mohun Bagan strengthened their position at the top of the Indian Super League (ISL) table with a commanding 3-0 victory over Punjab FC. Jamie MacLaren’s second-half brace and Greg Stewart’s strike secured the win, ensuring playoff qualification for Bagan. The Mariners now sit twelve points clear of second-placed Jamshedpur FC, albeit having played two additional games. Punjab FC, meanwhile, remain ninth, trailing Mumbai City FC by five points for the final playoff spot.

Punjab FC began the match cautiously, content to sit deep and rely on goalkeeper Ravi Kumar to make crucial saves. Despite their defensive approach, Mohun Bagan struggled to create clear chances in the first half, which ended goalless.

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The deadlock was broken just over ten minutes into the second half. Manvir Singh delivered a cross from the right, and Jamie MacLaren expertly controlled the ball in the box, turned, and fired a low drive into the bottom corner to give Bagan a 1-0 lead in the 57th minute. Ravi Kumar continued to keep Punjab in the game with a sharp reflex save to deny MacLaren shortly after, but he was helpless in the 63rd minute when Bagan doubled their advantage. Liston Colaco curled a precise cross from the left wing that seemed destined for the far corner, though Greg Stewart claimed a slight touch to guide it home.

Punjab attempted to mount a comeback but failed to break through Bagan’s solid defense. The match was put beyond doubt in the 90th minute when Ashish Pradhan’s backpass was intercepted by Jason Cummings, who squared the ball for MacLaren to tap in his second goal and seal the 3-0 victory.

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With this win, Mohun Bagan continue their dominant run in the ISL, while Punjab FC face an uphill battle to secure a playoff berth.

Key Moments:

• 57’: Jamie MacLaren scores the opener.

• 63’: Greg Stewart doubles the lead.

• 90’: MacLaren completes his brace to seal the win.

Final Score: Mohun Bagan 3-0 Punjab FC.