Both the local giants were reluctant to take part in the play-off and the rumour was rife that the two losing semifinalists, who share 15 Federation Cup titles between them, would settle for a draw and let the penalty shoot-out decide the fate.

With Mohammedan fielding a very inexperienced side resting captain Alfaz and Abahani forwards wasting sitter after sitter, the fans and critics eventually reached a verdict that the goalless 90 minutes was nothing but a 'pure friendly'.

The most notable part happened off the field when fans, bored by the dull football played by their beloved teams, chased out Muktijoddha supporters and their hired brass band out of the galleries halfway through the second half.

In the shootout, Joy, Ndem, Pradeep and Ibrahim converted all their spot kicks for the Sky Blues who had beaten their archrivals 5-1 in the group match. Defenders Papel and Biplab scored for Mohammedan but Scylla was denied by Abahani goalkeeper Nizam and Asad struck the crossbar from 12 yards.