Ludhiana, Jan 28 (NationPress) The four-match winning streak of I-League front-runners Namdhari FC came to a halt as they settled for a 1-1 draw against Sreenidi Deccan FC at the Namdhari Stadium on Tuesday.

Both teams scored in the first half, with Brazilian striker Cledson Carvalho da Silva notching his seventh goal of the season for Namdhari, only for William Alves to equalize just before halftime for Sreenidi Deccan.

Namdhari holds the top position in the standings with 21 points from 11 matches, but they could be surpassed by Churchill Brothers if they secure a victory against Real Kashmir on Thursday. Meanwhile, Sreenidi Deccan remains in eighth place with 12 points, having drawn three of their last four fixtures.

The match kicked off with a significant opportunity for David Castañeda, whose header went over the bar from close range. Namdhari defender Sukhandeep Singh effectively disrupted the Colombian's attempt for his eighth goal of the season.

Both teams attempted long-range shots, with Francis Addo and Peter Seiminthang Haokip missing from 25 yards, while Lalnuntluanga Bawitlung sent a half-volley wide from just outside the box.

Namdhari managed to score the opener in the 33rd minute due to a defensive mistake from Sreenidi Deccan. A seemingly routine back pass from Eli Sabia turned into a chance for Cledson, who seized the moment and finished past Aryan Lamba.

However, Brazilian William Alves quickly responded, scoring a well-placed header in the 45th minute from a cross by Angel Orelien, marking his fifth assist this season. Namdhari’s goalkeeper Jaspreet attempted to punch the ball but was outpaced by William, who expertly directed it into the net.

Six minutes into the second half, Lamba made an outstanding save, denying Namdhari the chance to take the lead again. Addo’s cross found Peter, who managed to evade his defender and shoot from close range, but Lamba was alert.

The second half saw a more cautious approach from both sides, characterized by fewer scoring opportunities and increased physicality, leading to numerous fouls and interruptions. Namdhari’s Addo, Cledson, and Sreenidi’s Lalromawia received yellow cards.

As the match drew to a close, both teams sought a winning goal, with Orelien and Dharmpreet Singh sending their attempts from outside the box off target.

In stoppage time, Namdhari appeared to have scored again, but their goal was ruled offside. Vicente de Paula threaded a pass for Cledson, who rounded Lamba to score, only for the assistant referee’s flag to intervene.