KRL finding its way towards third PPFL title

Defending champions defeat KPT 1-0 to stay top.

KARACHI: KRL defeated KPT 1-0 to strengthen their position as the top team in the Pakistan Premier Football League (PPFL) in Lahore on Sunday.

The defending champions faced a tough challenge from KPT in the first half. However, Mehmood Khan scored the winner in the 48th minute of the match to hand KRL their 20th win this season.

Coach Tariq Lutfi said that despite some rough play from their opponents, KRL managed to control the game.



“There was a lot of rough play from KPT,’ Lutfi told The Express Tribune. “There was no need of it, and KPT received six yellow cards. But nonetheless my team held it together.”

KRL now have 65 points after playing 28 matches. They are facing competition from Wapda and KESC on the second and third positions respectively as both sides have 62 points.

“Our win against KPT can be very crucial if Wapda manages to defeat KESC on Tuesday. If KESC loses that match, KRL’s chances of winning the title will increase.

“However, if KESC wins than our match against Army on Wednesday will be a big one.”

KRL are on their way to winning their third consecutive PPFL title. They also have the advantage of the best goal difference. The team has scored 50 goals and conceded only eight in their 28 matches.

Lutfi said that the team had some set-backs as his key players picked up injuries.

“Our captain Samar Ishaq didn’t play the season,” he said. “Even Muhammad Adil is also not playing because he has signed a contract with Kyrgystan’s Dordoi FC.”

Meanwhile, KPT concluded the season on eighth position with 38 points.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 3^rd,  2014.

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