I-league: Shivajians end EB’s slim title hopes

New Delhi: East Bengal’s floundering I-League campaign plunged to a new low on Sunday, succumbing to their fourth consecutive loss, a 1-0 defeat to DSK Shivajians in Barasat, West Bengal, which ended their slim hopes of winning the tournament.

Man of the match Jerry Mawihmingthanga’s 29th-minute strike proved to be match’s defining moment, which increased the pressure on beleaguered East Bengal coach Trevor James Morgan, whose days on the hot seat look numbered.

Mawihmingthanga, after evading an offside trap led by a static East Bengal defence, headed over goalkeeper Subhasish Roy Chowdhury, culminating a fine end to a move started by Halicharan Narzary.

DSK’s veteran shot stopper Subrata Paul also contributed to their win, thwarting desperate East Bengal’s numerous attacks.

East Bengal, prior to their latest setback, lost by identical 1-2 margins to Mohun Bagan in the Kolkata Derby, Chennai City FC and Churchill Brothers. They remained third on 27 points after 16 matches while DSK are now seventh with 17 points.

East Bengal approached the match on the backdrop of a violent backlash from supporters at the club on Friday. But it hardly improved made the players’ performance.

In another match, hosts Mumbai FC played out a dull 0-0 draw with Chennai City at the Cooperage grounds.