The clash of the titans remained inconclusive as East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant played out a 1-1 draw in their derby clash in the Indian Super League penultimate round at the Salt Lake Stadium here on Sunday.

The result helped East Bengal preserve its superior goal difference of 18 over its arch-rival’s 13 as both sides remained locked on 23 points after 12 matches before heading into the final round scheduled for May 21. Mohun Bagan now faces the prospect of having to win by a large margin and also hope the former loses or at least draws its final game to harbour any hopes of finishing on top.

Sunday’s contest witnessed an exciting exchange as both went in search of goals from the outset.

The opening session turned intense with Mohun Bagan creating two good opportunities in the first 10 minutes.

The scoreline could have changed then itself but for the hesitation of Sahal Abdul Samad, whose delayed attempts allowed the East Bengal defence to recover and clear the danger.

Having absorbed the early pressure, East Bengal gradually grew into the match and earned a clear chance in the 14th minute. However, Bipin Singh, despite beating Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, struck his effort straight at defender Alberto Rodríguez.

East Bengal striker Anton Sojberg then found himself one-on-one with Kaith in the 37th minute, but failed to get past Kaith.

The contest came alive in the closing stages as East Bengal eventually broke the deadlock in the 85th minute through substitute Lalrindika Ralte.

Mohun Bagan responded swiftly, equalising in the 90th minute through substitute Jason Cummings to force a dramatic draw.

The result: Mohun Bagan SG 1 (Cummings 90) drew with East Bengal FC 1 (Lalrindika 85).