A controversial second half penalty goal by Jose Ramirez Baretto enabled Federation Cup champions Mahindra United get the better of fighting Fransa Pax 2-1 and gain full points in the ONGC [Get Quote] Cup 10th National Football league match, at the Nehru stadium in Margao, Goa [Images], on Monday.

Baretto scored for Mahindra in the 18th and 82nd minutes, both through penalty kicks. Ivan D'Silva accounted for Fransa's goal, in the 10th minute.

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With this victory Mahindra took their tally to 10 points and moved on par with table toppers Mohammedan Sporting, who have as many points from four outings.

Bottom-placed Fransa have two points from an equal number of matches.

In a fast-paced encounter, Fransa drew first blood as early as in the 10th minute through Brazilian Ivan D'Silva, whose left-footer found the net from close range, off a fine pass from Sidney Nkalanga. 1-0.

But the lead was short-lived as the Mumbai champions restored parity in the 18th minute through Barreto's penalty goal.

Mahindra were awarded penalty by referee P Vikramjit after Fransa defender Peter Rodrigues handled the ball inside the box.

Fransa had a chance to increase the lead in the 22nd minute but the visitors' goalkeeper, Subhashish Roy Choudhary, brought off a fine save off a header from Sidney.

In the 32nd minute of the first half, Yusif Yakubu, after collecting the ball, dodged past a couple of rival defenders and made a fine placement but Fransa goalkeeper Virendra Singh brought off a brilliant save, diving to his left.

Though the second half did not witness much action, Fransa had the upper hand for a major part.

In the 59th minute, Mahindra came by a good chance but Steven Dias's shot of Baretto's pass was well-saved by Virendra Singh.

Mahindra's match-winner came in the 82nd minute when the referee awarded another spot kick, which Baretto converted to seal the issue.

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