Albirex, Balestier salvage home draws
Albirex Niigata and Balestier Khalsa both came from behind to salvage draws in the Great Eastern-YEO's S.League on Saturday evening.
By ESPNSTAR.com staff
Albirex, who were looking to bolster their chances of a top-three finish with a victory over Courts Young Lions at the Jurong East Stadium, fell behind after just eight minutes courtesy of a fine solo effort by Jonathan Toto.
Nine minutes into the second half, Benjamin Kristofferson Lee made it 2-0 when he headed home a Sherif El-Masri cross to put the visitors firmly in the driving seat.
However, White Swans captain Norihiro Kawakami gave his side a glimmer of hope on the hour mark when he netted with a crisp volley, and nine minutes later, the comeback was complete as set-piece expert Masatake Sato curled home a freekick to salvage a share of the spoils for the hosts.
Over at the Toa Payoh Stadium, Balestier found themselves a goal down at the break against Tanjong Pagar United after Argentinean playmaker Carlos Delgado opened the scoring in the 40th minute with a delightful freekick.
Nonetheless, the Tigers hit back 15 minutes from time through captain Paul Cunningham to earn a point that guarantees them a top-six finish.
Saturday's Great Eastern-YEO's S.League Results
Albirex Niigata 2-2 Geylang United
Balestier Khalsa 1-1 Tanjong Pagar United