Odisha FC fended off a strong challenge from SC East Bengal to record a 2-1 win in an ISL VIII match in Vasco. The result keeps the outfit in the hunt for a top-four place by elevating them to sixth place.

Jonathas (23rd) gave Odisha FC an early lead that lasted until Antonio Perosevic (64th) scored the equaliser in the second half. Javi (75th) regained the lead for Odisha with a precise finish,which proved to be the winner in the end.

In the early stages of the match, Odisha FC piled a lot of pressure and was finally rewarded with an early goal from Jonathas. Javi served the ball on a platter for the striker who tapped in from close range.

Looking for the equaliser, Hira Mondal took an attempt just before half-time but his left-footed strike went wayward. The restart saw more sluggish action as neither side was able to find inspiration in the final third.

The best chance to score the equaliser fell to Antonio Perosevic two minutes before the hour mark. A long ball from deep saw the forward find room behind the defensive line but his volley had too much elevation. However, Perosevic made no mistake from a similar opportunity a few minutes later and scored the equaliser with a low finish into the bottom right corner.

Nevertheless, Odisha FC regained the lead 10 minutes later through Javi. The midfielder received a lay-off from Jonathas who turned from scorer to provider. The right-footed shot from the Spaniard took a slight deflection before swerving into the back of the net.

Javi almost scored another a few minutes later but Mondal managed to make a goal line clearance to deny him the goal. SC East Bengal had four minutes of added time to find the leveller for the second time, which eventually did not arrive, allowing Odisha to bag the three points.

Odisha FC face Mumbai City in Fatorda on February 13 while SC East Bengal play Kerala Blasters in Vasco on Valentine’s Day.