Persepolis pummels Naft Tehran

PTV – TEHRAN, Persepolis has thrashed Naft Tehran in the 31st week of Iran Premier League (IPL) to keep its slim chance alive for finishing among the IPL top three.

The Reds overpowered Naft 5-1 at nearly empty Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Sunday to remain on the fifth spot with 53 points after Teraktorsazi.

Hamidreza Aliasgar scored the opener in the 17th minute thanks to a low cross into the box.

Two minutes into the second half, Hossein Badamaki doubled the lead for the Reds after a string of short passes in the penalty box.

Seconds to the hour mark, Aliasgar netted the third for Persepolis to double his tally, and Hadi Norouzi added to Naft’s misery with a fourth five minutes from time.

Naft then reduced the deficit through Sajjad Feyzollahi but it turned out ultimately in vain as Brazilian striker Tiago Alves Fraga fired home the fifth goal to clinch the victory for Persepolis.

Defending champion Sepahan is still on top with 61 points and a match in hand, three points more than the second-placed Esteghlal.

Zobahan is third on 56 points. Teraktorsazi and Persepolis both have 53 points, but Teraktor is fourth on goal difference.

Sepahan and Saba will play the last match of the week on Monday.