4/10/2006
Afshin Afshar, lastkick.com

In what was the most consequential game of this Sunday’s IPL matches, Shahid Ghandi of Yazd faced Malavan in Anzali. The Yazd side, which had not won a mach in 16 tries, were desperately hanging on to stay in the top flight, but a 2:0 defeat by Malavan sealed their fate. Malavan’s goals were scored one in each half by Ali Yahanejad and Mohammad Gholamain.

Perspolis and Esteghlal of Ahvaz played a 2:2 draw. Ahvaz took the lead in the first half when former Team Melli defender Ebrahim Taghipour headed in a corner kick. In the second half Shays Rezaei and Rafael scored two straight to give Perspolis the lead. However, the Reds could not hold on for the win. With fifteen minutes left, man of the match, Ebrahim Taghipour, sent Amir Khalifehasl through. Khalifehasl had his initial shot blocked but managed to get the rebound in the ensuing confusion and tie the match at 2.

Shamooshak were defeated by Abu-Moslem in Mahsad. The game’s only goal was scored by Younes Geraeili in the second half. Short of a miracle, Shamooshak are certain to go down with Ghandi at the end of this season.

In Tehran, Rah-Ahan got a much needed victory against Saipa thanks to a goal scored by Hadi Asghari after the break. A single point out of the next two games will guarantee their stay in the top flight.

To view current standings click here.

Sunday, April 9

Esteghlal Ahvaz 2:2 Perspolis
Rah-Ahan 1:0 Saipa
Abu-Moslem 1:0 Shamooshak
Malavan 2:0 Shahid Ghandi