The East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant derby at the Kalinga Super Cup threw up a controversy when Mohun Bagan failed to convert a penalty after retaking it. After Hector Yuste put the Mariners in lead from a sublime flick, Cleiton D’Silva’s thunderous punch restored parity for the Red & Gold brigade.
However, the talking point of the match came in the stoppage time of first half when Mohun Bagan were awarded a penalty. Kiyaan Nassiri’s shot was blocked by Hijazi inside East Bengal’s penalty area with his hand. The referee pointed to the spot, and the drama unfolded.
Petratos stepped up and put the ball past the East Bengal goalkeeper. However, the referee blew his whistle, asking the penalty to be retaken. There was an infringement into the East Bengal box as the Australian was on his way to score. Mohun Bagan protested vehemently, but the referee stood firm on his decision.
Petratos again set himself up to take the penalty kick, and took a powerful shot on the right side of the goalkeeper. Even though the ball was out of East Bengal goalkeeper’s reach, it deflected off the right post and came back out, providing East Bengal with a much-needed lifeline. Will the penalty miss come back to bite the Mariners? We’ll soon find out.