PANJIM, Feb. 24 -- [email protected]

NorthEast United inched closer to a playoffs berth with a 2-1 win over 10-man SC East Bengal in the Hero Indian Super League at the Fatorda Stadium, on Tuesday.

Suhair Vadakkepeedika's (48') strike and an own goal from Sarthak Golui (55') put the Highlanders ahead before the latter pulled a goal back in the 87th minute.

The win took Khalid Jamil's side back into the top four. They now have 30 points from 19 matches, level on points with FC Goa in third. The Highlanders now need just a point from their final league match against Kerala Blasters to qualify for the playoffs.

Despite not having regulars, SCEB made life difficult for NorthEast. The Highlanders had a few half-chances but East Bengal cont...