Dempo's chances of making the semi-finals of the Under-19 National Football League received a boost when they edged past title aspirants Salgaocar by a solitary goal at the Duler grounds in Mapusa, Goa, on Sunday.'

The victory put Dempo on top of the league table with seven points from three matches, displacing Salgaocar, who remain on six points after suffering their first defeat.

Mahindra United, who have played a match less, are third with four points.

Sunday's match was mostly confined to the midfield as Dempo's attempts to score proved unsuccessful with Salgaocar goalkeeper Gerald D'Mello effecting two saves off Wesley Coutinho.

However, with three minutes left for the interval, Coutinho put his team into the lead when he ran solo from the rival half after receiving a pass from Clifford and scored.

Salgaocar were unlucky not to find the equaliser as Lector Caido's attempts at the goal twice hit the post.

Refereee Benjamin Silva showed the yellow card to Salgaocar's Denzil Franco.

Complete Coverage: National Football League (under 19) 2002-2003