Despite hitting an early bump through an own goal, Naga Corp resolutely bounced back to beat newcomers Boeung Ket Rubber Field 2-1 in their Metfone C-League encounter at Olympic Stadium on Saturday and leapfrog National Police Commissary into first place in the standings.

The former champions will enjoy the view at the top for at least a week as Police, who have a game in hand, play their next game on Sunday against Kirivong Sok Sen Chey.

Naga, who are setting a good tempo in the first half of the season, shockingly fell behind in the 40th minute when Thul Sothearith inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.

But in the second minute of added time before the breather, Naga frontman Nofiu Lasak Lawar levelled the scores.

The crucial twist for casino-backed club came midway through the second half when Sun Sophana produced the eventual match-winner.

For their part, Boeung Ket forced a dozen corners and had more shots on the goal than their rivals, but no matter how hard they tried they could not get the breakthrough they so desperately sought.

In Saturday’s other match, Hun Sen Cup holders Preah Khan Reach treated league novices Western University with disdain, posting a 4-0 victory.

The Military Police-backed PKR were more than happy to change ends with a 2-0 advantage on the back of striker Tum Saray’s double.

Prak Mony Odom added a quick goal on resumption and at the stroke of regulation time Sok Chanraksmey fired home the fourth.

With the victory, PKR clambered above reigning champions Phnom Penh Crown into fourth place and a potential berth in the postseason Super 4 playoffs.

To contact the reporter on this story: H S Manjunath at [email protected]