Assam Rifles beat J&K Bank 2-1; advance into main rd in Durand Cup

New Delhi, Oct 26 (UNI) Assam Rifles became the second team to book a place in the main draw after they beat Jammu and Kashmir Bank 2-1 in a final qualification round match of the 120th Durand Cup football tournament here today.

Akum Ao scored a brace (24th, 50th) for the winners while Emanuel (54th) reduced the margin for the J&K Bank in a keenly contested match at the Ambedkar Stadium.

Assam Rifles will now meet JCT in the main draw which will be played on knock out basis.

Border Security Force had yesterday booked a main round berth after beating local outfit Hindustan FC 1-0.

Today's match began with the Riflesmen having more of the exchanges early on and Akum slotted a fine goal midway in the first session to go for the breather with a one goal advantage.

But, the Bankmen regrouped after the lemon break and equalised just five minutes after resumption. Assam Rifles, however, struck back four minutes later through mercurial Akum again.

The Bankmen tried hard towards the end for an equliser but to no avail while they had to ward off quick counterattacks from the Assam Rifles players.

Indian Air Force will play Amity Football Club tomorrow for the third main draw berth.

Four teams from among 18 will qualify for the main round starting from October 30.

UNI