A robust Ministry of National Defence twice bounced back from a goal down to hold Metfone C-League leaders Boeung Ket Angkor to a 2-2 draw at the RSN Stadium on Saturday evening.

The much-anticipated clash between the two prime title contenders saw exciting moments at both ends of the pitch. But the Army side’s resilience in the face of intense Boeung Ket pressure ensured an honourable draw for coach Tep Long Rachana’s men.

The draw means Boeung Ket, who have amassed 34 points after having played 13 games, still retain a six-point lead over their nearest rivals, with the Army’s game in hand against Western Phnom Penh scheduled for Sunday.

Defender Sok Sovan fired Boeung Ket into the lead just after the half-hour mark, but the Army response was swift. Within four minutes, Cambodia international player Chhin Chhouen drew the Armymen level.

Nigerian signing Dzarma Bata responded quickly to make it 2-1 for Prak Sovanara’s charges as half-time approached.

Not long after the resumption, North Korean striker Cho Myong-ho restored parity for the Army who, with a game in hand, were attempting to narrow the gap on their top of the table opponents.

In Saturday’s other fixture, Cambodian Tiger FC eked out a 2-1 win over CMAC United at the Western Stadium, while at the same venue the previous day, the National Police bagged their second win in as many weeks, edging past Asia Europe United 1-0.