CALCUTTA, MARCH 16: The competition for the second Philips National League Football title intensified today with Air-India, Mumbai, scoring a late goal to hold leaders Mohun Bagan to a 2-2 draw at the Salt Lake Stadium here.The visitors shot into lead against the run of play in the 43rd minute with P J Jose netting a left-footer. But Lolendra Singh drew parity for the local giants within a couple of minutes. Singh was also adjudged Man of the Match.
Following the changeover, Bagan's Sri Lankan recruit Roshan Pereira put his team ahead in the 66th minute. But Air-India's Subir Sinha drew level from a spot kick in the 88th minute after Bagan custodian Hemanta Dora was pulled up by the referee for an improper elbow charge on Khambiton Singh.
Bagan now have 30 points from 16 matches, with Salgaocar Sports Club breathing down their neck having accumulated 29 points from 17 outings. Bagan would take on Dempo, Goa in an away match and Mahindra and Mahindra, Mumbai in a home match to complete their leagueengagements.
Air-India have 26 from 17 matches.
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.
