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I-League champions Salgaocar, were held to a goalless draw by Mumbai FC but Prayag United rode on Joshimar Dasilva's strike to beat Chirag United Kerala 1-0 in their respective Federation Cup matches in Pune on Sunday.
While the likes of Ryuji Seoka and Chidi Edeh failed to find the net for Salgaocar despite trying everything, Joshimar sealed the issue for Prayag when he scored off a rebound on the 17th minute at the Balewadi Sports Complex.
With Seoka partnering Chidi upfront, Rocus Lamare and Mehrajuddin Wadoo did all the hardwork for Salgaocar in the midfield.
Mehraj played all over while Rocus caught the eye as he fed Ishfaq Ahmed and Chidi on a number of occasions.
On the other hand, the Mumbai FC defence stayed as stubborn as ever - Kingsley Chioma and Faisal Rehman - the two central defenders not giving the Salgaocar strike force time and space.
Karim did induct some fresh legs in the second half, with Gilbert Oliviera and Anthony Barbosa coming in midway into the second session, but even they were not able to break the deadlock.
In the day's other match, the Prayag midfielders coordinated well between themselves, feeding the strikers on a regular basis.
The goal came after Kayne Vincent's free-kick rebounded for an alert Joshimar to slot the ball home.
Pailan Arrows kicked off their campaign in the Federation Cup Football on a winning note, after they got the better of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) 1-0 in Pune.
After a goalless first half, and another 43 minutes in the second, Jibon Singh broke the deadlock when he converted from the spot in the 89th minute.
The Arrows were awarded a penalty after Malswamfela was brought down inside the box at the Balewadi Sports Complex.
The scoreline may not reflect the true picture but it was a match that was dominated by the Arrows for a major part.