KARACHI: Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) grabbed a crucial 2-1 victory against Karachi Port Trust (KPT) in the Pakistan Premier Football League (PPFL) here on Tuesday to move out of the relegation zone.

ZTBL striker Hanif Khan produced a sterling performance up front at the KPT Football Stadium as ZTBL moved to 23 points, pushing PMC Athletico into the drop zone in the process.

Hanif was involved in the opening goal as he forced Saadat Hussain to put through his own net in the 34th minute before setting up Iftikhar Ali Khan for their second in the 69th.

KPT hit back in the 75th when they won a penalty which was dispatched with ease by their regular penalty-taker Akhtar Mamol, who plays in central defence.

KPT went all out in search of an equaliser but ZTBL held on for all three points which could prove crucial as the season comes to a close.

Wednesday’s fixtures: NBP v Wohaib FC (KPT Football Stadium, Karachi); KESC v PMC Athletico (People’s Football Stadium, Karachi).