Ashtiani presents pacesetter perfect points

MNA – Javad Ashtiani scored a late goal to inspire the sixth Iran Pro League (IPL) leader SAIPA into a 1-0 victory over home side Fajr-e Sepassi in Shiraz, capital of southern Fars Province, Friday.

Fajr had a better performance on the bumpy pitch of Hafezieh Stadium and missed a scoring opportunity in the first half, but the automakers celebrated the winner eight minutes from normal time when Ashtiani headed home a corner.

The win became sweeter as second-placed Esteqlal of Tehran salvaged a draw against Zob Ahan in Isfahan.

Zob squandered a host of chances to share the points with the visiting holder after a scoreless tie.

The runaway leader SAIPA is on top of the 16-strong with 37 points and Esteqlal retakes its second spot on 31 points.

In other Friday’s games, Pas beat promoted Pas 1-0, Rah Ahan and Barq tied 1-1, Sepahan defeated Malavan 2-0, Paykan overcame Fulad 1-0, and Saba Battery saw off Esteqlal of Ahvaz 1-0.

In Thursday’s match, Abu Moslem came from two goals down to stun home side Persepolis 4-3 in the empty Azadi Stadium in western Tehran.