Date:04/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/04/stories/2007120470951900.htm

Sport - Football

Viva holds A-I

MUMBAI: Air-India overcame the shock of Njoh Jean’s red card expulsion in the 32nd minute to force Viva Kerala on the retreat. The 1-1 draw in the ONGC I-League forced a superior A-I to share points with a defensive-minded Kerala outfit at the Cooperage on Monday.

Viva Kerala, conqueror of Mohun Bagan at Kolkata, appeared to be on course for back-to-back upsets by taking the lead 16 minutes into the away tie. Tabia Othalo fired home a 30-yarder past a stunned Sarath E.C. in the Air-India goal. Bashiru Abbas neutralised the advantage with a snap 18th minute header, picking up the ball off a goalmouth melee created by Uttam Singh throw-in.

The match took a decisive turn in the 32nd minute due to an off-the-ball incident featuring A-I’s Njoh and Viva’s Tutu George. The latter appeared to have lost his balance and fell in trying to get around Njoh, referee Deepak whistled for foul, then linesman Dinesh Nair drew his attention to the severity of the offence.

The red card was flashed instantly. After the two fell in a tangle of limbs, George convulsed in agony on the ground, attracting the linesman’s attention. He was stretchered out, and then recovered miraculously to join his teammates.

The Viva Kerala player was later adjudged the ‘best player.’ — Special Correspondent