Margao, May 29: Five-time champions Dempo SC returned to I-League's top division beating Minerva Academy FC 3-1 in the final match of the second division here on Sunday.

Milagres Gonsalves scored a first-half brace for the home team. The other goal was netted by Felix Chidi. Amandeep Singh reduced the margin for Minerva at the Tilak Maidan ground.

Dempo started all guns blazing and needed only nine minutes to get their noses in front when Milagres Gonsalves headed in. Four minutes later, Felix Chidi doubled the lead following a solo run.

Minerva players were completely clueless and could only muster their first attack in the 15th minute.

Just after the half-hour mark, Felix Chidi ran past Amandeep Singh and released Gonsalves who converted with much ease to make it 3-0.

Dempo SC enjoyed plenty of ball possession and nearly scored their fourth in the second half only for Mandar to shoot narrowly wide.

Minerva pressed more to gain a foothold into the contest. They managed to reduce the margin through Amandeep Singh in the 8th minute.

But that was the only joy they had as dreams of promotion into the I-League were dashed.

IANS