I-League: Carlos's brilliance takes Prayag past Dempo

A world-class strike by World Cupper Carlos Hernandes helped Prayag United return to winning ways. They beat beating league-leaders Dempo SC 1-0 in a 14th round match of the I-League at the Municipal stadium in Kalyani, Kolkata, on Friday.

Costa Rican midfielder Hernandes scored with a spectacular free-kick in the final minute of regulation time to turn the tide in favour of Prayag United, who registered their first victory after successive defeats in the previous two rounds.

Prayag scored after Dempo were reduced to 10 men in the 86th minute, following the ejection of defender Debabrata Roy after two bookings.

With the availability of the full squad, Prayag United played true to potential, with Hernandes and Nigerian Ranty Martins powering the thrust of the home side.

Churchill Brothers Sports Club opened up an impressive two-point lead at the top of the table after crushing the challenge of Shillong Lajong FC 6-0 at the Duler ground, in Mapusa, Goa.

With defending champions Dempo Sports Club succumbing to the might of Prayag United, Churchill find themselves two points clear at the top and still have a match in hand.

Churchill were helped with goals from Steven Dias, Henri Antchouet, Ajay Singh, Beto and a brace from substitute Akram Moghrabi.