Classy Fulad one win away IPL title

MNA – Leader Fulad needs three points to lift the fourth Iran Pro League trophy as it won the derby against Esteqlal 2-0 in the southern capital city Ahvaz Friday.

Fulad striker Lefteh Hamidi deserved a pat on the back for hitting his double in the 44th and 69th minutes in the rescheduled match in Takhti Stadium, extending the table-topper’s superiority with four points above title hopefuls Zob Ahan and the capital’s Esteqlal.

The Ahvaz-based Esteqlal lost his fifth place to holder Pas, which earlier extracted a win against the home team Abu Moslem in stoppage time.

Issa Traore stunned the black-clad Abu Moslem before home fans in Takhti Stadium in the northeast city Mashhad, grabbing the winner in the dying moments.

The victory brought the champion’s points to 41 points.