CFL: Mohammedan Sporting hold Mohun Bagan to goalless draw

Ten-man Mohammedan Sporting held I-League champions Mohun Bagan to a goalless draw in their Calcutta Premier Division lung-opener on Sunday.

Sporting were reduced to ten men in the 33rd minute when their skipper Nurain Karim Omlaja was red carded for pulling back an advancing Raja Das just outside the box at Vidyasagar Krirangan in Barasat.

With midfielder Lalkamal Bhowmick essaying fine crosses and centres, Mohun Bagan looked the better team in the first half.

In the 38th minute Das missed an easy chance when he shot wide after being fed by Souvik Chakraborty inside the box.

Sporting went on the counter, but striker Nurudeen Olawale's long ranger was off target.

Sporting started as the better team in the second session, but Mohun Bagan gradually seized the initiative.

Midway into the half, Lalkamal's free kick was headed out by substitute Kean Lewis.

The fast and skilful Lewis troubled Sporting, but could not finish off the chances that came his way.