Mahindra United's title hopes went up in smoke on Wednesday when Mohun Bagan defeated the Mumbai outfit 3-1 in an I-League match in Kolkata.
Last year's runners-up Bagan, who have already given up their title aspirations, scored through Ryuji Sueoka (11th minute), Edeh Chidi (45th) and Snehashish Chakraborty (67th).
Mahindra's lone goal was scored by Mohammad Rafi through a penalty in the 22nd minute.
Mahindra's loss meant that table-toppers Dempo, who have 41 points from 21 matches, are virtually assured of the title.
Bagan, on the other hand, climbed to third place -- ahead of Churchill Brothers on goal difference -- with 32 points from 21 encounters.
Bagan's Brazilian striker Jose Ramirez Barreto impressed with his skills as he was instrumental in all the three goals. However, it was Chidi who was named the man-of-the-match.
JCT down Chirag
In another match in Ludhiana, JCT rode on a second half strike by N Henry to script a solitary goal victory over Chirag
United.
JCT dominated the proceedings in the first half and managed to pierce through visitor's defence on several
occasions but failed to give the finishing touches.
After change of ends, the home team surged ahead in the 54th minute through a powerful grounder by Henry.
JCT have 28 points from 22 matches while Chirag United have 31.
