Pune FC rally to hold Churchill 1-1

Pune Football Club came from behind to hold defending champions Churchill Brothers to a 1-1 draw in their round five I-League match at the Nehru stadium in Margao on Wednesday.

Hosts Churchill took the lead in the 44th minute through a penalty taken by Odafe Okolie which was cancelled by Edmar Figueira in the 76th minute.

Churchill, who drew their fourth match, have seven points from five matches while Pune FC collected four points from as many matches.

Pune FC, who are yet to notch their first win, began aggressively as they moved the ball well and enjoy more of the possession in the first half. But their inability to breach the rival's strong defence could not fetch them an early goal.

Doughou Sey Pierre, who played alongside Edmar Figueira upfront, tried a powerful shot which Churchill 'keeper Arindam Bhattacharya collected off a second attempt.

The visitors' defence also put up a good show and managed to keep dangerman Odafe Okalie at bay until the 44th minute rush of blood from defender Selwyn Fernandes.

Fernandes brought down Okolie from behind inside the box forcing referee P Baskar to award a penalty, which Okolie himself converted beating 'keeper Subrata Paul.

Despite trailing the hosts, Pune FC played a steady game in the second half and found the equaliser in the 76th minute.

Defender Caitano Costa sent a long lob into the box for Edmar Figueira, who essayed a left footer which spilled from 'keeper Arindam Bhattacharya and rolled into the net.