Calcutta: The battle for I-League title took an interesting turn once again as home favourites Minerva Punjab FC faced a surprise defeat at the hands of Gokulam Kerala FC at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula on Tuesday.

Gokulam Kerala FC hit the crossbar thrice before getting their hard-earned goal in away conditions. With this win, Gokulam Kerala have now astonishingly beaten Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Minerva Punjab in back-to-back games.

Despite two losses, the league still is for Minerva to lose. After 15 matches they have 29 points, while table-toppers Nercoa have 31 from 17 matches.

Even if Neroca win their last match they will have 34 points, while Minerva will have 38 if they win all their three ties. Gokulam also gave East Bengal a lifeline. The red and gold brigade, who have 26 from 15, will have to win their remaining three matches and hope Minerva flounder once again.

Gokulam showed their attacking edge from the very first minute as the attacking trio of Kivi Zhimomi, Henry Kiseka and Salman K made life difficult for Minerva defenders.

William Opoku tried his luck in the 15th minute to give the home side an early lead but his powerful shot was blocked.

The combination of Randeep Singh, Kassim Aidara and William weren't working too well although Minerva attacked really well near 35th-minute mark but couldn't tickle the scoreboard.

Minerva tried to control the game after the change of ends but injuries to Gokulam players disrupted their play.

Finally, the moment of the match came in 75th minute when a short cross by Provat Lakra was taken first time by Henry. The ball hit the crossbar and fell straight to Henry again who scored with a sensational bicycle kick to silence the home crowd.