Salgaocar, Dempo in goalless draw

Goalkeeper Juje Siddi's fine showing enabled Salgaocar hold Federation Cup champions Dempo to a goalless draw in a National Football League match at the Nehru stadium in Margao, Goa, on Thursday.

Following the draw, Dempo maintained second position in the league table with 14 points from seven outings. Salgaocar have eight points from as many outings.

Dempo could have snatched full points had Melwin Rodrigues converted a controversial spot-kick, awarded in the 85th minute by referee Walter Pereira, after their striker Ranty Martins was brought down by Salgaocar defender Prashant Jaggi in the box. Melwin, however, shot straight into Siddi's hands.

Earlier, it was a tale of missed chances as both teams threatened each other's citadel.

Salgaocar had a good chance in the 25th minute but Dempo goalkeeper Satish Kumar did well to dive at the feet of ace striker Felix Ibrebu and grab the ball.

Kumar was injured in the process and was replaced by Francis Fernandes.

Before the spot kick, Dempo had their best chance to score in the 76th minute but goalkeeper Siddi brought off a fine save off Ranty's curling free-kick.