Defending champions Bengaluru FC halted their wretched run of form, which saw them go without a win for eight consecutive games with a scrappy 1-0 win against Minerva Punjab in Ludhiana on Sunday.

Lenny Rodrigues scored the only goal of the game, which came from a free-kick taken by Cameron Watson in the 14th minute of the game. Bengaluru, though, failed to build on the lead, and seldom tested the Minerva goal.

Bengaluru’s problems from their previous games persisted as they failed to create clear-cut openings. Udanta Singh, once again, was one of the standout performers for his side, showing plenty of energy driving forward from the flanks. The winger came close to scoring with a long-range effort.

Close to the hour mark, the away side introduced new signing Marjan Jugovic to shake things up in attack but chances were largely limited. Skipper Sunil Chhetri too, put in another lackluster display and went missing for a major part of the game. Minerva lacked cutting edge in attack and were sloppy in possession. Bengaluru remained on fifth place with 16 points, and are level on points with fourth-placed Shillong Lajong. Minerva remained at seventh with 11 points.

Brief scores:

  • Minerva Punjab 0 lost to Bengaluru FC 1 (Lenny Rodrigues)