EB pip Bagan to book final berth

India8217;s Nehru Cup hero Subrata Paul was once agian in his element this time thwarting the relentless Bagan attackers.

Indian captain Bhaichung Bhutia was on target for Bagan when he showed characteristic opportunism in the six yard box. Nigerian Mohammad Gafari spread the ball wide to Jose Ramirez Barreto at the right edge of the box. The Brazilian8217;s shot was blocked by Paul and Bhutia was the first to react. Demonstrating his sublime poaching prowess Bhutia beat his three markers to slot home the opener, which trickled in after a faint touch by the keeper.

East Bengal coach Subrata Bhattacharjee made a tactical switch by sending in Dipendu Biswas in place of Debabrata Roy as early as the 16th minute. East Bengal were soon level when Sen and Dipendu showed nice inter-passing before the latter took a shot on goal. Surkumar was in the way and with a deft touch, deflected the ball in.

East Bengal were now dominating proceedings as they took control of the midfield. They soon doubled the lead when Dipendu Biswas slotted home after a fine run by Rahim Nabi. East Bengal added a third just after half time on a quick counter-attack. Maria lost the ball in the midfield and Dipendu ran at pace towards goal before passing to Ashim, who showed admirable composure to beat Peter Odafe and Rauf before finding the target.

Pereira put on Lalkamal Bhowmick and P C Lalwmpuuia as Bagan went all out. Bagan got one back through Barreto in the 71st minute on a long ball from Dharamjit but that elusive equaliser never arrived.