I-League: Minerva Punjab play 2-2 draw against Aizawl

The Warriors Minerva Punjab FC hosted the highlanders Aizawl FC on Saturday in the fourteenth game of the ongoing I-League before the international break sets in.

Mahmoud Al-Amna (43') opened the scoreline and Kamo Bai (56') doubled the lead before the drama unfolded at the Guru Nanak Stadium. Loveday (61') pulled one back after the hour-mark and Kareem Nurain (81') levelled the scoreline for the hosts.

In the first half of the game, Minerva Punjab had more possession of the ball and Aizawl FC struggled to capitalise on their opposition follies.

Aizawl FC brought in their Under-22 player Lalthamika in place of Kingsley, who is undergoing suspension at the moment. They broke the deadlock in the first half after Jayesh's through ball found Al-Amna who slotted home for the visitors.

In the second half, Aizawl FC came up much stronger with Al-Amna and Alfred Jaryan dictating the play in the attacking third. Aizawl FC utilised their set piece well from their dead ball specialist Jayesh Rane and found Kamo Bayi, who made no mistake to put the ball past the Minerva custodian Arnab Das.

The host came back into the game in the last quarter after Kareem's set piece was put into goal by Loveday leaving Albino Gomes frustrated.

Minutes later, Kareem scored a brilliant free-kick to deny the visitors three points.

Following the draw, Aizawl FC have 30 points from 14 matches whereas Minerva Punjab FC have bagged 12 points from equal number of matches.

Minerva Punjab FC play their next fixture against Chennai City FC on April 8 while Aizawl FC face defending champions Bengaluru FC in Bengaluru.