Dempo Sports Club exploited the shaky rival defence scoring a 3-1 win over Lebanon's Al Ansar in the opening group match of the AFC Cup at the Nehru Stadium in Margao on Tuesday.

Dempo, who lead 2-0 at half-time, scored through Nigerians Ranty Martins (20th, 31st) and Edeh Chidi (61st).

Al Ansar, who had the major share of exchanges and scoring chances, pulled one back in the 89th minute through Hassan Danach.

Playing with five men in midfield and a lone sriker upfront, the visitors played an offensive game. They had two chances to score but Dempo keeper Abhijit Mondal brought off good saves to deny Fadi Ghosson.

Dempo concentrated more on defending their citadel and relied on long balls. They took the lead in the 20th minute, taking advantage of the space provided by the rival defence.

Roberto Silva, from the right, split the defence with a long pass for Ranty Martins who controlled the ball, took a few steps and essayed a stunning shot that found the net.

Al Ansar continued to leave gaps in defence and Martins again punished them with a goal in the 31st minute.

Nicolau Borges, from the left, sent a cross to Martins into the box. The latter chested the ball, beat a defender and seeing keeper Larry Mehanna out of position, sent a gentle shot into the net.

Changing over, Dempo increased the tally in the 61st minute.

A combined move between Martins and Edeh Chidi saw the latter getting the better of the rival defence and sending a rasping drive into the net.

The visitors went all out in the last quarter of the match but failed to cash in on a couple of clear chances that came their way.

However, Hassan Danach pulled one back minutes before the end of the match to score a consolation goal for the visitors.

Referee NG Chiu Kok of Hong Kong showed yellow card to Al Ansar's captain Malek Hassoun and El Choum Ahmad.

Dempo will now travel to Oman to play against Sur Club on March 18.

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