Terrific goals, good football, late drama and heavy rain. The final match of the I league between Bengaluru FC and Mohun Bagan had everything for a perfect finale. And it was Bagan who clinched the title as the game ended at 1-1. They finished the season with a two point lead over the runner up Bengaluru.
The game started off with some terrific end to end football with both teams creating equal chances in a rain drenched Kanteerava stadium. But Bengaluru’s desperation for winning was evident with eight fouls made in the first 25 minutes. Their midfield was instrumental in creating pressure on Bagan’s defence. John Jhonson scored the first goal for the blues with a brilliant header from a corner kick. The goal made Bagan to play attacking football, especially with their star player Sony Norde upfront who was unfortunate to see a good shot of his deflecting off the crossbar.
The second half started with Boya missing a good chance for Bagan. The rain also started falling heavily making the turf slippery for the players. Throughout the half Norde tried to challenge Ralte with some good shots but the Bengaluru goalkeeper made sure that nothing passed through. But his efforts went in vain as Bello scored in the 86th minute courtesy of a good corner kick.
Earlier the decision of Ahley Westwood to bench star striker Sunil Chhetri was surprising and his presence was felt by the attacking front of Bengaluru. Though the striker came after Bagan scored, it turned out to be too late for him to score a late winner for the blues. The goal ensured Bagan their first I league title.
As the final whistle was blown Mohun Bagan became the first club from West Bengal to clinch I-League title and this was their fourth league title overall. A perfect ending for a season in which they dominated right from the start.
