Mumbai Strikers came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Companeroes; Gaurav Adhikari's hard & low first post finish in the 90th minute completed the breathless turnaround.
The Strikers were a goal behind after 20 minutes when the referee unexpectedly pointed for an indirect free kick inside the D-box. MS Centre Back Ravish D'souza was adjudged to have held on to the ball after being fouled much to the amazement of both teams. The resultant indirect free kick was blasted to the roof of the goal over the hapless MS Keeper Abhishek Singh. MS were wastefull in finishing as chance after chance went begging looking for the decisive touch.
The deficit remained until minute 54, when winger Gaurav Adhikari's run down the left flank accompanied by a low drive finish set the stage for a comeback. MS' hopes were dashed again as Companeroes found their second goal late in the second half against the run of play as a feeble shot from the top of the box scrapped through in the net after hitting the bottom of the far post. The Strikers went all out for the equaliser with only a few minutes remaining. The pressure paid-off in the 87th minute; MS were awarded a penalty when a low cross by Midfielder Amit Koli hit the arm of the Companeroes defender. MS stalwart Ravish D'souza stepped up to score the equaliser as his deft placement found the side netting leaving the Companeroes custodian on his heels.
The Strikers went looking for the winner and found their chance right in the final minute. Winger Gaurav Adhikari dribbled down the left flank leaving the Companeroes defender in the wake as his low shot from near the six-yard box found the back of the net. The MS staff and supporters were ecstatic as the players celebrated one of the clubs best comebacks to remember. MS held on to their nerves as the stoppage time played out sealing a historic 3-2 victory.
MS will look to end the season with a win as they play their last match versus Salsette FC on Tuesday morning.