Iran`s Persepolis held by plucky Sanat Naft

TEHRAN,Dec.26(MNA) – Sanat Naft came from a two goal behind on Tuesday to draw with Persepolis at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium. Persepolis captain Ali Karimi put the Reds in the lead in the 5th minute with a left-footed shot from outside the penalty area. Five minutes later, Mohammad Nouri extended Persepolis’s lead with a header. Sanat Naft took control of the match in the second half. Reza Khaleghifar pulled a goal back 10 minutes after the break. With just six minutes remaining, Ruhollah Arab found the back of the net with a powerful header. Persepolis put Sanat Naft under pressure to score the winning goal but failed to defeat brave Sanat Naft. Elsewhere, Foolad drew 2-2 with Damash; Paykan was humiliated 4-1 by Saba in its home game; Zob Ahan edged Sepasi; Malavan was held to a 1-1 draw by relegation-threatened Gahar; Rah Ahan lost to Naft 1-0; and Mes defeated powerhouse Sepahan in its soil. Esteghlal will play Aluminum in Bandar Abbas and Saipa face Traktorsazi in its home game.