Goalkeeper Edward saves the day for Indian Bank

Indian Bank, Chennai, huffed and puffed before scoring a solitary goal victory over Pax of Nagoa, Goa, in the concluding fourth round match in the Second Division National Football League (final phase) in Pondicherry on Tuesday.

The victory brightened Indian Bank's chances of promotion to the first division. They are placed second with ten points, behind Dempo, who head the table with 12 points, at the end of the fourth round.

In a match dominated by the Goan team, the brilliance of goalkeeper Felix Edward saved the day for Indian Bank. Pax failed to convert the chances that came their way, missing at least three clear chances before the breather.

The all-important goal came in the dying moments of the match when substitute Noah Rozario tapped home a rebound off the goalkeeper.

Pasha centred the ball from the left flank and Kasun Nadika took the shot to find Binu blocking it. Noah Rozario, who was substituted for Hamilton Bobby, latched on to the chance and scored.

The Goan team was distinctly unlucky, as in the 31st minute the crossbar came in the way of A Raza's shot.

Indian Bank hardly made any moves in the first session except for some aimless shooting. After the barren first half, they raised their game and had better exchanges.

In the 67th minute, Bellio found the net for the Goans, collecting a pass from the right flank. However, referee Mustaq Pasha disallowed the goal much to the disppointment of the Goan players. Assistant referee Shaji Kurien maintained that the cross was made from outside the side line.

The Goan team also had the mortification of missing a penalty-kick in the 80th minute. Indian Bank goalkeeper Felix Edward neatly collected the kick which was taken by Bibiano Fernandes.

The penalty was awarded as defender J Anandrajan handled the ball inside the box. Indian Bank were reduced to ten men as the referee showed the red card to the player for the offence.

Second Division National Football League 2001-2002 - the complete coverage