Sheikh Russel KC managed to carry their poor domestic form into the international level as they surrendered the lead and played out a 1-1 draw against Tatung FC of Chinese Taipei in the AFC Cup Play-Off Qualifiers at the Changlimithang Stadium, Thimphu, Bhutan yesterday.

Cameroonian Jeans Jules Ikanga gave Sheikh Russel the lead in the 32nd minute with a left-footed volley from inside the box after a weak clearance by Tatung goalkeeper Sheng-Hsin Wei.

Sheikh Russel looked better on the pitch with the inclusion of four guest players. Rubel Mia and Mohammad Ibrahim caused all sorts of trouble down both flanks while defenders Nasir Chowdhury and Yeasin Khan confidently guarded the backline.

However, Yeasin was the man who awarded their Chinese counterparts an 80th-minute penalty by bringing down Jui-Chieh Chen inside the box, which Shih-Cheng Hung then converted.

Sheikh Russel now desperately needs a win over Bhutan's Tertons FC on Thursday to qualify for the play-off rounds.