Playing with rare determination, JCT Mills scored once in each half to shock IFA Shield runners-up Churchill Brothers 2-0 in a National Football League match at the Nehru stadium Goa on Tuesday.
JCT, who led 1-0 at half-time, scored through Harvinder Singh (24th minute) and Jo Paul Ancheri (68th).
The victory swelled JCT's tally to 11 points from ten matches while Churchill remained on 14 points from as many matches.
JCT, who had lost to Vasco 1-2 in their last match, played with more determination and the return of the seasoned I M Vijayan gave more teeth in the upfront. New Ghanian recruit Salisu Mohammed combined well with Jo Paul Ancheri in the midfield.
The defence, in which Harpreet Singh stood out, also gave a good account, cutting off rival moves before they could get threatening.
Relying on counter attacks, JCT took the lead in the 24th minute when a Jaswinder cross from the right into the box was nodded home by Harvinder after defender Pio Rodrigues failed to clear the ball to safety.
JCT increased the lead in the 68th minute when Ancheri beat keeper Edward Ansah with a firm header that found the far post off a free-kick from substitute Ram Pal.
Churchill had more of the exchanges and scoring chances but had themselves to blame as they faltered at crucial junctures.
The absence of defender Mahesh Gawli and medio Noel Wilson was felt in the midfield and the defence looked porous when under pressure.