Kolkata, April 7 (IANS) Mohun Bagan's famed striking duo of Jose Barreto and Bhaichung Bhutia failed to fire as the locals went down 0-1 to Kuwait SC and virtually drew curtains on their AFC Cup engagements here Tuesday.
After an unproductive first session, the visitors got the all-important goal at the stroke of the hour playing on the Howrah Stadium turf.
The goal came against the course of play following a setpiece. Skipper Farag Laheeb's freekick was spectacularly backheeled into the net by overlapping fullback Samer Almartah, keeping the Bagan defenders stranded.
After three games, Bagan are yet to open their points kitty, while Kuwait SC lead Group D with seven points.
Bagan dominated the show for most part of the proceedings, but the indisposed Barreto's lackluster showing and Bhutia's inability to net a gilt-edged opportunity spelt its doom.
The Brazilain Barreto was finally replaced in the 82nd minute, but by then Bagan seemed to have run out of steam.
Bhutia was guilty of missing the rosiest of chances as early as the 13th minute when his lob went wide with rival goalkeeper Musab Alkandari looking helpless.
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