Persepolis’ bid for title

MNA - Persepolis coach Afshin Ghotbi praised his side’s performance after a scoreless draw against Mes of Kerman in the 29th week of Iran’s Professional League.

“Persepolis saved an important point in Kerman. They (Mes) played well at home and had already defeated a number of big teams in Kerman. I congratulate Amir Ghalenoei on the way his team played,” Afshin Ghotbi told reporters on Thursday at a news conference.

“We were the better team in the first 25 minutes but did not take advantage of our chances. Persepolis were reduced to ten men in the second half after the referee sent off Hossein Kaebi, and defended very well till to end of the match. I am absolutely delighted with the result.” Persepolis coach declared.

Persepolis will have to win its five remaining games in Tehran to claim the IPL’s championship, Ghotbi added.

The Tehran giants stand second with 46 points above Saba Battery. Persepolis is four points behind leader Sepahan of Isfahan.