Luckily, the teams split points following a 1-1 draw and seemingly avoided a situation which could have snowballed into an unruly one. However, the loyalists of either team in the stands decided to carry on a bit farther and posed a threat even as the alert Delhi Police jumped into the fray to thwart the move.

Even the conduct of referee Rehani was questionable at times and it provoked the enraged crowd misbehave, raising their voice to a higher pitch. The rough play by Youngmen, frustrated as they were, also meant four yellow cards two from each side booked. But for these, the match was just another dull affair despite some good moves by either side.

Youngmen unleashed the attack right from the beginning and should have taken the lead within two minutes of the game. But midfielder Amit Kumar's shot hit the post. Off a counter-move, City's Dalip Bhandari tested Aijaz Ahmed but a diving stop saved them the embarrrassment.

But Youngmen's efforts borne fruit in the 21st minute when Pradeek Kumar, taking the flag kick sent the ball soaring and Shekhar Khanna made no mistake.

The lead had understandably spurred on Youngmen and they made some deep inroads without any reward. Just before breather, Lokinder reduced the margin following a free-kick to level the score.

After the break, the two teams were bent on making amends for the missed opportunity. But no one reckoned that it meant playing rough. The referee had to intervene time and again and there were quite a few unpleasant situations. There was a brief stoppage when City loyalists forced it and some expletives could be heard loud and clear.

Towards the end, Youngmen could have won the match but Khanna headed over the ball after Innocent sent a cross from right.

Incidentally, the teams picked their first points following the draw today. They had lost their earlier games in the super league.

In tomorrow match, Shastri take on Moonlight in a group 2 encounter.

Agarsen tourney
Maharaja Agarsen Sports Club will organise a junior cricket league (under-14) tournament for boys from September 12.

The players who have born on or after 1.9.1985 are eligible to participate in this tournament.

For entries and any information contact Ashok Goel, organising secretary, D-15/253, Sector-3, Rohini, Phone 7274437 before August 25.