Kolkata: East Bengal suffered their first loss in the I-League this year courtesy a 0-1 defeat to Prayag United SC at Salt Lake Stadium here Sunday. Prayag continued to be the nemesis for East Bengal who faltered yet again against the lesser-known Kolkata opponent to suffer their first loss of the I-League.
The 11th round match saw a reversal of roles as Prayag United regained their winning form ending a run of three successive losses. Nigerian goal-machine Ranty Martins found the winner late in the second half. East Bengal had lost to the same opponent by the same margin in the last season's I-League meeting.
Looking to extend the unbeaten run in the tournament after the violence-marred abandonment of their 10th round match against arch-rival Mohun Bagan just week ago, East Bengal could not put their plan to action as Prayag United put a more determined show.
The two teams played more intense football after a barren first half. But Prayag seemed to enjoy the edge by having a better control on the midfield. Despite employing a lone man attack in Ranty Martins, Prayag United balanced their approach well and effectively locked up the East Bengal offence for the greater part of the action.
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