Pune: Yusif Yakubu fired a hat-trick to inspire Mumbai FC to a smashing 4-2 win against the relegation-threatened defending champions Churchill Brothers in a round 25 match of the I-League here on Sunday.
Yakubu struck in the 10th, 14th and 65th minutes, his third goal virtually sealed Churchill’s fate, as Mumbai FC ensured that they will not drop into the relegation zone.
Three points on Sunday helped Mumbai climb to No. 8 in the standings with 28 points, while Churchill dropped down to the bottom of the table after Mohammedan Sporting won their match against Rangdajied United FC to move two points clear of Churchill.
The Goan club, however, have three matches to play before the end of the season, while Mohammedan and United SC, two teams still in danger of the drop, have two games to go. RUFC have just one more match to play.
Hosts Mumbai went two goals up through Yakubu, but an inspired comeback from Churchill saw them equalise early in the second half.
Asley Fernandes and Jason Vales scored for the Goans.
Yakubu’s hat-trick goal then saw the home team retake the lead and Shehnaj made it a comfortable 4-2 later on.
Mohun Bagan, United SC share spoils
Meanwhile, in a Kolkata derby, United Sports Club and Mohun Bagan played out a goalless draw in their round 25 match.
This was a game of very few clear cut chances as both teams lacked quality in the final third but United SC did hit the woodwork once.
The result keeps Mohun Bagan two points ahead of United SC, who have a game in hand, but neither team are mathematically safe just yet. (Agencies)