Bagan open Premier league on disastrous note

Kolkata, Jul 31 (UNI) Kolkata Premier League defending champion Mohun Bagan began their title defence in a disastrous manner losing 0-1 to Calcutta Port Trust (CPT) at their home ground here today.

The all-important goal came in the 42nd minute of the second half when Sujit De of Port Trust latched on to a mistimed clearance from Dipak Mondal, sprinted down for some 15 yards, fudged Bagan keeper Subrata Pal with a deft touch and calmly slotted home to give the CPT a well earned victory.

The star-studded Bagan team put pressure from the very first minutre and continued to build on that throughout the match. They forced six corners in the first half. But all this territorial supremacy could not be translated into goals due to some dour defending from CPT and lack of co-ordination up-front.

Baichung Bhutia, Subhas Chakroborty and Lalampuia combined well, but could not open the CPT goalmouth.

In the fist half, Subhas Chakroborty almost created a chance but there was no one at the other end of the square pass to finish a fine move. Lalampuia and Baichung were also culprits of profligacy.

For Port Trust S Maity played a fine game in the mid-field creating chances and distributing the ball with imagination.

Poor underfooting added to the woes of the players as the game was reduced to a snail's pace for most part of second half.

UNI BA PL AY RK1812