Saipa breaks Zob Ahan win streak

PTV – ESFAHAN, Saipa has trounced the pacesetter of Iran’s Premier League, Zob Ahan, 2-0 in the 21st week of the season to end its unbeaten run.

The Isfahan-based club suffered the home loss on Saturday after eight straight victories, but still leads the 18-team table with 42 points.

Karim Ansarifard scored the opener in the 17th minute to give coach Mohammad Mayelikohan’s side the lead. Amin Manouchehri then doubled the lead in the 57th minute of the match.

Also on Saturday, Persepolis downed Naft Abadan 2-0 at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.

Persepolis’ first chance to net the opener was in the 16th minute, but Gholamreza Rezaei missed a good opportunity.

The Reds’ efforts were no good until the very last minute of the first half when they were awarded a penalty kick, which was easily converted by Maziar Zare’.

In the second half, Persepolis boss Ali Daei sent in strikers for more goals. In the 51st minute, Hadi Norouzi doubled the Reds tally.

Thanks to the home victory, Persepolis has 33 points to keep its hopes alive for the league championship.

In the other matches, league title holder Sepahan played to a goalless draw against Shahin in Bushehr, and Saba thumped Rah Ahan 2-0. Foulad Khuzestan defeated Naft Tehran 2-1, Malavan blanked Peykan with two goals, and Pas was held to a scoreless draw against Teraktorsazi of Tabriz.

Two other matches will be held on Sunday. Esteqlal will meet Steel Azin at Azadi Stadium, and Shahrdari is scheduled to host Mes in Tabriz.