Play-by-Play: ATK make second half comeback to overturn NEUFC's lead, go top of the table

ATLETICO DE KOLKATA came back from behind to defeat NorthEast United in their own home ground and ascend to the top of the ISL points table.

Although it was ATK who started better, creating many chances and controlling more of the ball, NEUFC were making their attacking abilities felt with sudden, speedy counters. Most of the first half saw good attempts from the likes of Alfaro, Katsumi and Borja but the two goalkeepers, Subrata and Debjit, stood tall most of the time.

Towards the end of the first half, a well placed cross from Nirmal Chhetri found Emiliano Alfaro right in front of the goal. The close range finish was perfect and NEUFC ended the first half 1-0 ahead.

But just after an hour mark a brilliant ball from Robert Lalthlamuana found Helder Postiga - who made a return from injury in this game, coming on as a substitute in the second half - whose left footed finish left Subrata short of reach. ATK were level 1-1, and the fight for 3 points was on.

But bad luck struck the Highlanders when Subrata Paul picked up an injury and had to be substituted. He was replaced by second keeper Lima Gomes. And the second goal turned out to be a fault of the new keeper as he let a harmless cross pass through his fingers. The ball reached Belencoso who was standing three feet from an empty net and he did the needful. ATK went 1-2 up 82 minutes in and that sealed the game.

This is NEUFC's second loss in a row and has seen them slide to the third place on the ISL points table, with 10 points from 7 games. ATK, meanwhile, have ascended to pole position with 12 points from 7 games. 

Here's how the entire match unfolded, narrated through our blow-by-blow updates...