PESHAWAR, July 8: A superb first half strike by substitute Basharat Ali earned Pakistan Navy a shock victory over holders Army in the Inter-services football championship at PAF Football ground on Friday.

Navy, who lost to Army 3-0 and PAF 2-1 in the earlier league round matches, were surprise winners.

With this unexpected result, the championship has become wide open with all three teams in contention to lift the coveted trophy.

Army began brightly and Babar Mehmood almost scored in the fourth minute when his powerful kick was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Ishaq Ahmed diving to his right.

Navy gradually came back into the game and wasted two easy goal scoring chances in the 23rd and 30th minute when Zahir Hameed and Bashir missed the target when ideally placed.

With barely two minutes left to the half time whistle Navy netted the all-important goal through substitute Basharat who beat Pakistan national team goalkeeper Jaffar Khan.

Army tried hard to at least snatch an equalizer but were frustrated by a well-organized Navy defence for whom goalkeeper Ishaq was outstanding, bringing off several fine saves. —Agencies