KARACHI: Army moved level on points with Pakistan Premier Football League (PPFL) leaders Khan Research Laboratories after edging past Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) 1-0 on Thursday.

In Rawalpindi, Ansar Abbas struck the winner in the 17th minute at the Army Stadium to help his side to 46 points but Army trail KRL on goal-difference having played three games more than the defending champions.

Elsewhere in Chaman, Jadeed Khan Pathan, omitted from the Pakistan squad for disciplinary reasons for their tour to Singapore, scored Afghan FC’s winner against Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) at the Government High School Ground to send his team to 25 points.

In the second-tier Pakistan Football Federation League, Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), Baloch FC Noushki and Chand FC recorded victories.

Rashid Ali scored a hat-trick and Lal Mohammad netted a brace as SSGC beat Insaf Afghan Company (IAC) 5-0 in the departmental leg clash here at the Korangi Baloch Football Stadium.

In the club-leg, Mohammad Ilyas’ brace was the highlight of Baloch FC Noushki’s 5-0 win over CDA FC at Okaa’s Municipal Stadium while Kafiatullah’s goal gave Chand FC a 1-0 win over Afghan Sports FC at Layyah’s District Sports Ground.

Friday’s fixtures: PPFL: Muslim FC v Navy (Government High School Ground, Chaman).

PFFL: Departmental leg: Police v PPWD (Steel Town Football Ground, Karachi).— Sports Reporter