Churchill rally to hold Vasco

Churchill Brothers rallied strongly to hold Vasco to a 2-2 draw in an exciting match in the fifth National Football League, at Nehru stadium, in Fatorda, Goa, on Monday.

Vasco, who beat Churchill 1-0 in the first phase, led 1-0 at half-time through Edson Wanderly's 39th minute goal. They increased the lead in the second half through Vishant Pednekar in the 71st minute.

Churchill, who held more of the exchanges and scoring chances, especially in the first half, restored parity through Igor Shkvirin (73rd minute) and substiture Abhishek Yadav (84th).

With this draw, Churchill, who have played 21 matches remained in fourth place with 33 points, while Vasco moved to fifth place with 27 points from 20 matches.

Vasco drew first blood in the 39th minute when a move on right saw Koshimov Avazbek put Edson Wanderley through. Edson, on reaching the top of the box, took a shot at goal, which 'keeper Edward Ansah failed to anticipate. The ball found the far corner of the net.

After changing ends, Vasco increased the lead in the 71st minute when a one-two move between Edson and Vishant Pednekar saw the latter out-pace a defender and chip the ball over the on rushing keeper.

But just when it looked as if Vasco would pick full points, Churchill regrouped and scored twice.