Day 45 and 46, Match 41 and 42, 3-0!

When the teams previously met. Kerala scored 1 goal against Goa's closed account. Both the teams are on fire by defeating some strong teams. Knockouts are close and a win would mean respite for both the teams.

The match between Northeast and Chennai is a clash between table toppers and the team at the bottom. Northeast surprised all the followers by defeating the reigning team by 3 goals. They seem to be getting back to their old days.

FC Goa (3) - Kerala Blasters FC (0)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2

Courtesy:ISL

With the kick off, it was the home team, Goa, that dominated the game. Kerala started but lost the possession rather easily to their opponents. Bikramjit was not careful even when he was caring two yellow cards from previous matches. Ozbey's shot hit the cross bar and reached Santos. The Brazilian quickly took the shot but James' dive deflected it for a corner. When Amiri tried to head the corner for a goal, James saved it with one hand. Terrific performance by the Englishman. Barisic shot straight into Seda's hands. Goa led the attack index with a margin of 38%.9 (This is huge!). An early substitution for Goa as Ozbey made way for Slepicka. A good attempt by Bikramjit but Jhingan blocked him. A lot of rough tackles and some yellow cards. Santos came in with a beautiful pass to Mandar outside the 18 yard box. The forward decided to go for glory when a pass would have solidified their chances of goal. The ball went straight into the hands of the keeper and none of the teams could open their account before the first half. The second half started with double substitution for the visitors. Milagres for Godwin and Kerala's favourite, Hume, for Romey. The substitutes displayed great work. They provided a thorough ball to Barisic who couldn't hold it well. Hume to Pearson, a good run by the midfielder but was intercepted. We are again going to use the expression, 'David James!'. Kerala used their three substitutions. Jhingan brought Narayan on turf but the referee mistook him for Hume and gave the Scottish forward a yellow card. Poor decision by the ref. Santos put a curling free kick straight into Slepicka's feet and Czech forward's kick found the back of the net. Milagres' selfish shot hindered the guests to find a goal. The man who sent a perfect curling ball for the first goal, doubled the lead. Santos put Romeo's pass to the best use. Goa up by 2! James was uneasy. Kerala definitely needed a replacement but unfortunately they had used up their three subs. Slepicka's second goal for the evening. A good play by Bikramjit and Slepicka. James tried hard but the home team capitalised on the injured Keeper. It was the worst performance by Kerala's defence. They failed to guard their injured Keeper. Goa won by 3 goals.

Northeast United FC (3) - Chennaiyin FC (0)

Formation: 3-5-2 and 4-3-3

Courtesy:ISL

Northeast started the game but Chennai won the first corner. Mendy stood strong as a wall as Koke and Boithang tried to earn a goal. Koke has looked very furious to score in the previous matches. He comes up with good runs but lack of team support that has been hindering his performance greatly. Koke to Garcia and Garcia to Adinga. Their game challenged the keeper's judgement as he ran in the wrong direction. Unfortunately, Northeast couldn't turn the moment in their favour Mtonga's shot went over the cross bar. That was a really poor shot. The attack from the home team continued. They created pressure on the guests since the beginning but lacked final touch. Their wait, however, ended early as Durga scored in the tenth minute of the game. It was a result of a wrong pass Chennai's defender as in order to block Boithang, Djemba-Djemba sent the ball straight to the Indian forward. The second goal from the home team looked so easy. Koke sent in the ball and Massamba headed it at the back of the net. Surprising or weird, we are not sure but the same thing happened in the game just after two minutes of the second goal. Koke took the free kick and Massamba scored! Northeast had 3 goals in their account before 25 minutes of the kick off! Capdevila received a yellow card just before the end of the first half. Balwant created a good opportunity but his want to take the shot himself prevented Chennai's opportunity to get back into the game as the second half progressed. Cristian scored for Chennai but the ball was declared off side. Northeast showed lack in their defence but Chennai couldn't exploit it. Balwant. He stood like a statue when he had a great opportunity to score. He showed poor sense of judgement in this match. Koke for Bertos (we don't agree). Capdevila received his second yellow for the evening for bringing Maurice down. The home team had 10 players now.  Chennai tried really hard during the second half but mostly went wide. Northeast's crowd was ecstatic with their teams 3-0 win over Chennai.

Courtesy:ISL

Northeast could have easily made it four in the first half. Though the home team managed to win, we had some serious concern whether they would be able to maintain their lead as their defence was so fragile during the second half of the game. This was the first time after Elano's injury that we yearned for the Brazilian. For Goa, we just want to say, "keep it going like this lads and you can reserve your birth for the knock outs!"

Day 42 and 43, Match 39 and 40!

Two amusing matches. All the teams tried their best but we got balled over by Chennai!

Mumbai City FC (0) - Chennaiyin FC (3)

Formation:   4-1-4-1 and 4-3-1-2

Courtesy:ISL

When Chennai last hosted a match with Mumbai, the home team won 5-1. Mumbai desperately wanted to avenge their defeat with a home win this time but unfortunately they couldn't stand strong in front of our new table toppers.
The opening ten minutes of the game favoured the home team. They enjoyed the possession and were able to acquire a free kick that Moritz failed to positively utilize. After this the game saw very less breath taking moments till the end of first half. Denson's shot made Paul bend on his knees. Jeje fouled on Moritz, giving Mumbai a free kick. Cmovs took the shot but the ball went wide. Jeje received a yellow for the event. The hosts built some pressure on the guests. Didika acquired the ball from Mendy and passed it to Moritz but the shot was saved by the keeper. Mumbai drew another chance as the ball fell in front of Barcigliano but the defender cleared this as well. Moritz picked up a hamstring pull and was sent off. Ljungberg came in place of the Mumbaian striker. Team work by Balwant and Jeje. A mediocre first half made way for a captivating second half. An animated Peter Reid! Silvestre first strongly challenged Tiago and then Subhash. His frustration is eminent. Jeje created a golden opportunity but the defender held that. Pelissari was intercepted by Balwant. He immediately received another ball from Jeje only to score this time. Chennai with a lead. Mumbai failed to score from a free kick but their opponents did not. Dhana calmly drove the ball, once deflected by Paul, into the net. Chennai up by 2 goals! Cristian's strike went straight through Paul. another goal for the visitors. Four minutes stoppage time did nothing for the home team and Chennai easily swept away 3 points.

Northeast united FC (1) - Delhi Dynamos FC (2)

Formation: 4-1-3-2 and 4-3-3

Courtesy:ISL

It was the clash of two teams that once looked very promising. These teams are placed at the bottom of the table. Their last meeting was a goalless draw. Del Piero on the bench yet again!
It was the home team that started the game. Dynamos enjoyed possession but Shylo worked against the team. He took a shot when a pass was needed and the ball went flying off post. Dos Santos came with a blinder in the fifth minute and Delhi had an early goal. It was Mulder who came with an early goal in the previous game. Dos Santos provided Mulder with a perfect pass which the Dutch midfielder converted into a goal. The home team was definitely under pressure as Delhi had scored 2 goals well within first fourteen minutes of the kick off. Chansa with a lovely aerial ball for Koke but the Spaniard's weak strike sent the ball above the crossbar. Chansa did well as an attacking midfielder. He was Northeast's playmaker. It is only because of him that the gap in the attack-index shortened. By the end of the first half it looked as if the visitors were exasperating the home team with useless passes. Lights go off for the second time in the League; led to a delay in the start of second half. Northeast was in attack mode later in the first half. They started the other half with same spirit. Adinga crossed the ball towards Len who headed it over the post. Van Hout saved the team from double attacks by Do and Chansa. Northeast started to break their opponents defence. Dos Santos on strike again. Koke missed and that must have hurt as it was such a powerful strike. Koke sent the corner and Mtonga headed it for a goal. Van Hout to the rescue as he held Chansa. Padilla lost a golden opportunity in during the injury time. The match could have been a draw but ended in visitors' favour.

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai proved once again that they can manage without their star player. We think hat with their present form, they can easily claim the title. We saw no hope for Mumbai as they were being annihilated by the visitors.
Delhi saved three points against Northeast but the team did not impress us. Northeast's attack was stronger. It was Delhi's defence that saved them, otherwise, the game belonged to the home team. 

Day 41 and 42, Match 37 and 38

Kerala vs Kolkata and Goa vs Pune. The fixtures produced mixed predictions as the League is becoming highly unpredictable. The teams who stood strong so far have started to shake while the underdogs are prancing and leaping in the standings.

Kerala Blasters FC (2) - Atletico de Kolkata (1)

Formation: 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1

Atletico are dethroned by Chennai from the top position while Kerala is on a winning spree with 4 continuous victories. Last time when the teams met, they settled for one point each ,but this time the results were unexpected. The game commenced with an early goal by the home team, Kerala. Iain Hume received a perfect pass from Gusmao and shot it straight through Roy's hands to provide his team with a 4th minute goal. This lead endowed the home team with great confidence as they pushed for more goals. Romey's clearance could have led to a home goal but went wide. Gurwinder ceased Jofre's run. Jofre seemed to be the only player urging his team to go forward. He created a handful of opportunities and succeeded to acquire a corner which his team mates failed to utilize. Fikru broke into a bicycle kick and missed by a fraction. David James! Pedro Gusmao, the man who provided the assist for the early goal, scored for the home team to add on to their outcome. Kerala was up by 2 goals before the half time. The other half started with Kolkata's Marquee player, Luis Garcia, entering the field. Fikru's eagerness was visible by his off side run. Kerala made a defensive error only to give Fikru an opportunity to score and get back in the game as he scored his fourth goal of the League. Gusmao had to be substituted because of an injury. The home team were persistent in creating telling chances, the closest being Godwin's strike. The game ended in Kerala's favour but we still have our doubts. Garcia's 90th minute strike could have been a side line goal, however, the referee was not convinced by it. 3 points for Kerala!

FC Goa (2) - FC Pune City (0)

Formation:4-2-3-1 and 4-2-3-1

When the teams met previously, Pune defeated Goa in their own background by scoring 2 goals while Goa couldn't open their account. The scoreboard reciprocated the previous tally only the winners were different. The first half, well, Andre Santos took the free kick and Romeo easily converted it into goal cum lead for the home team, Goa. Gregory's fault gifted the visitors a free kick just outside the box. This could have been Pune's golden chance to cancel Romeo's goal had Katsouranis' strike found the back of the net. Pune surely were keen to score but their final strikes were weak. Romeo was the home team's best man on the pitch. He was assisting, scoring, connecting and defending (just like Angel di Maria's first game for Manchester United!). Pune surely noticed it and Pennant decided to bring the Goan man down. Lenny's strikes were saved by Seda.  The home team proceeded towards the dressing room with a lead. Second half and Goa again on strike. Gregory held Dudu. Abranches... What a presentation of skills by Pennant but this man killed all the efforts as he couldn't take advantage of the assist. More on target shots came from the home team. Katsouranis' bicycle kick hit the cross bar and even Cirillo hit the right pole. During the stoppage time, Miranda was brought down. This assassinated Pune's hope to look for an equalizer but brought joy to the Goan fans as Slepicka converted the free kick into another goal for the home team. Goa now holds the fourth position in the league.

Kerala Blasters and FC Goa both had a poor start in the tournament. Both the teams have raised their game and are now giving tough competition to the presumably stronger teams in the league. Goa's victory over Pune is a perfect example of sweet revenge.

Day 38 and 39 ,Match 35 and 36.

A huge Gallic roar from the viewers as they finally witnessed some exiting matches this week. Both the teams of the matches have faced each other before. The result was the same, however, the techniques changed.

Atletico de Kolkata (1) - Northeast United FC (0)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-1-3-2

We always look forward to the Eastern derby as this is the side of the country that has inbred football. Kolkata have been out of form lately. They defeated the Northeast when the teams last met in Guwahati. The result was still the same as Kolkata succeeded to pick up 3 points after 4 games. The game started with a rather shaky home team as the players looked struggling to establish their layout. Felipe tried a long shot but was wide off the right post. Rehenesh misjudged and moved forward. He soon realized his mistake and in the urgency to hold his position again, he fouled on Fikru. The goalie was booked for the action. Garcia missed a great opportunity. Rehenesh was out of place but the ball went over the post. That could have been a crucial 21st minute goal for the home team. Roy saved a good corner taken by Northeast. Yet another corner for the guests, taken by Koke and headed by Mtonga. Roy, however again saved his side. Massamba tried to direct the ball with his head and instead slammed into Garcia's back. He was booked for the action. Both the teams tried their luck but none could score as the referee blew half time's whistle. The other started with Fikru's off target shot. this was not expected from the Ethiopian. Garcia tried and the ball went above the crossbar. He again came into action as he scored from a ball that first touched Borja and then was passed by Jofre. Koke wasted a free kick that he drew from Baljit Sahni. The visitors lost confidence after Kolkata's goal. They repeatedly made mistakes in all the areas. Fikru's theatrical (he went down deliberately, at least we vote for that!). Later in the second half, Kolkata changed their technique and instead of looking for more goals, they guarded their half and kept the possession. Northeast failed to capitalise some amazingly near the post free kicks. Kolkata with a home victory!

Chennaiyin FC (3) - FC Pune City (1)

Formation: 4-3-1-2 and 4-1-4-1

Before the game started, we prayed for a different result than last time's draw. Yeah! God listens to us. This was by far the most thrilling match of the week or shall we say of the second round. The score remained nil till the end of the first half but we surely saw some great passes and crosses. 3 players were substituted during the first quarter due to injuries. Chennaiyin star player Elano Blumer and Gouramangi went off and Pune had to substitute Magliocchetti. Pune's keeper had to budge more as compared to the home teams keeper. Defence was alert and intercepted their visitors' passes with accuracy. The tempo of the game rose in the later half. First Dhana and then Valencia tried to score but Arindham quickly collected the ball. Gurung had unconvincing disposition. Dudu for Trezeguet. India's very own Balwant assisted Valencia for the home team's first goal. Valencia provided Pelissari with the ball but Arindham's reflexes saved the team. ISL's first own goal. A pass from Davide urged Djemba-Djemba to go for the goal. The only problem was that he pushed the ball inside his own team's net, (remember Marcello's own goal in FIFA World Cup's opening match). 1-1 now! Pelissari couldn't wait and scored to give the home time a lead again. Valencia picked up a hamstring injury and had to leave the turf for Maurice. During the course of three minutes stoppage time, Balwant again became the man with an assist that Jeje converted into a goal. Chennai won in spite some of their crucial players got injured.

These were two delightful games. Northeast adapted differently this time by marking Fikru, as last time it was Garcia who was on the radar while the Ethiopian played freely. For Chennai vs Pune, technically it was the home team that scored all the four goals. Pune could have exploited Chennai's injury crises but they failed to take any advantage of that. Chennai proved that they can manage without their star players as they play as a team and do not rely on limited players. Chennai won our heart!

Day 35 and 37,Match 32 and 34

Draw! Draw, draw and goalless draw..
We know you're tired of reading this word repeatedly; trust us, so are we. This is like deja vu. But what can be done. We have to write and you have to read (wink).

Courtesy:ISL

Northeast United FC (0) - FC Pune City (0)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-1-4-1

Courtesy:ISL

Jermaine Pennant made his début for FC Pune City. During the entire first half none of the teams succeeded to keep the possession. A general link that the midfield creates between the front line and the back line, was absent from both the competitors. Wide shots came from Len and Davide. Koke's corner kick was not capitalised by his team mates. Similar error occurred after just 3 minutes when Capdevila's wide header wasted Koke's corner kick. Rehenesh denied the guests a lead by saving Davide's left footed shot. Koke and Len created a great momentum. Their team work was a delight to watch. Great pass, sharp turn but a wide curling shot by Mtonga surely killed the move. The first half ended with way too many wide shots. Except for Davide's striking shot and Len and Koke's team work, nothing really excited the audience. The second half was the polar opposite of the first half. Both the teams created many telling opportunities. It started with the Spaniard, Koke, who made a run into the box. Pune's defender on rescue as he saved Alen's ball. Pune used their second new signing in the game by calling back Davide for Vadocz. Katsouranis tried twice to score but was held by the opposite team. Both the teams used their three substitutions. Good chances were created by the teams but it was the home team that dominated the rest of the game. Northeast United had more shots on targets and committed lesser fouls. The game ended in a draw. Again!

Mumbai City FC (0) - FC Goa (0)

Formation: 4-4-2 and 4-4-2

Courtesy:ISL

Last time when the teams met for the Maharashtran derby, we witnessed a goalless draw. Although, Goa pushed really hard to win those desperately needed three points, the game duplicated their previous result. We saw Zico's team in a better form as the teams settled for one point each. Mumbai started the game by holding the possession. Santos provided Mandar with the ball inside the 18 yard box. Gregory made a silly mistake by letting Anelka loose. Fortunately enough the ball hit the cross bar. Subhash played one-two with Stohanzl but the latter put in a bit more force than required and Subhash lost the control. Subhash wasted an extraordinary chance provided to him by Andre Moritz. He had ample space in front of him but he missed the post. Paul denied Gabriel. Moritz attempted a bicycle kick but the ball went wide. Mumbai were able to drill into the Goan space during the first 45 minutes of the game but failed to find the back of the net. Goa received a corner in the budding minutes of the second half. Anelka and Moritz created many opportunities for their team. Amiri, who entered in place of Pires, blew Moritz' face with an elbow attack. This is the point where we disagreed with the ref. That was surely a penalty in favour of the home team. After a series of corner, Ozbey was able to get past the mighty wall of Paul but the goal post killed the moment.

Courtesy:ISL

Why dear DRAW, why? Why have you fallen in love with ISL?
Goa gave Mumbai a tough time and Northeast United is becoming predictable. After reading these matches, we have come to the conclusion that it is the attack that lacks. Defenders are doing their job and goalies are brilliant. Forwards take the ball near the box and as soon as our hands move towards our face (as we expect that they're going to shoot), they pass the ball. Last minute passing is not required at all. Players go for glory when a team mate is at a better scoring position and pass the ball when the probability to score is high. Forwards must have confidence to take the final shot if the want complete three points.

Day 33 and 36, Match 30 and 33. Oh! Delhi..

At the end of the first round of the League, Delhi was in the top four. With Del Piero as their Marquee player, it was expected that Harm van Veldhoven's men will raise their game in the second round. Unfortunately, Delhi Dynamos FC have failed to keep up with their tag line 'Thok Denge'.

Delhi have been performing consistently poor. Out of numerous games, their maiden win was against Chennai. They are so out of the form that they now hold the last position in the standings. They have tasted two back-to-back defeats this week; one was against Goa and the other came from Kerala.

Delhi Dynamos FC (1) - FC Goa (4)

Formation: 4-4-1-1 and 4-1-4-1

Courtesy:ISL

During the first half of the game, both the teams that lay at the bottom of the table, played well. Delhi lack creativity in attack. The game started with Delhi's Skoubo missing to convert a free kick in the budding hours. Goa created two continuous chances but were denied by the defence. Goa, however, did not miss the third opportunity as Bengelloun's strike found the back of the net. All the chances created by the Home team were held easily by the Guest's defence. Except for a nearly accurate attempt by the young Brazilian, Dos Santos, all the other attempts by Delhi were frail and predictable for the defence to clear. Mulder brought Pires down at the dawn of the second half of the game. Bengelloun's header for Andre Santos' curling ball gave Goa a lead by two goals. Van Hout made an error by bringing down Pires. Delhi paid heavily for this fatal mistake as the referee awarded Goa with a penalty which Pires took, providing the team with another goal within 5 minutes. Ozbey gave another blow as he scored the fourth goal for the Guests. Debarata's extended hand accorded Delhi a penalty which Dos Santos took. Delhi's crowd was not satisfied as their only goal came from a penalty kick. The game ended with Del Piero on bench and Goa with three points.

Delhi Dynamos FC (0) - Kerala Blasters (1)

Formation: 4-4-1-1 and 4-3-3

Courtesy:ISL

Del Piero in the starting line up gave the home audience a reason to cheer. Defence has always been Delhi's strongest point. But this much celebrated back line's slip in the opening minutes sent shivers to the followers. Del Piero took the corner kick and Shylo crossed it inside the box but the ball received no further assistance. Hume's beautiful, absolutely beautiful moves with the ball. Del Piero unselfishly passed the ball to Shylo but it was deflected by the defender. Team-mate Adil? Mad Junker passed the ball to Del Piero which the Marquee player headed towards the goal post only to find Adil unintentionally blocking it. Del Piero and Delhi are going through a rough patch, we suppose! Raymaekers picked by an injury at the end of the first half and had to be substituted. Well, this definitely wasn't good way for the Home team to start the second half. After Hume's failed attempt to score for his team, Del Piero built up a telling chance for his team. He passed the ball to Junker who further passed it to Mulder but Jhingan stopped the midfielder to score. Orji, who came as a substitute for Romey, changed the course of the game. With Hume's assist he broke the dead lock giving Kerala a lead. After a few set pieces, substitutions and numerous attempts by the home team, the game ended in favour of the Visitors.

Courtesy:ISL

Delhi lost twice on the home ground within a week but it is to be noticed that they played differently in both the matches. Delhi vs Goa brought the capital a humiliating defeat. The players struggled, largely in the second half. One could easily calculate that the Dynamos lacked in almost every area. Delhi vs Kerala saw the home team in a better shape. Delhi dominated the game even in the second half, which is considered to be their feeble quarter. Del Piero produced ample telling chances. He and Junker bring creativity to the field which the team definitely lacks as this is the team with least number of goals conceded (5). Van Veldhoven trusts Dos Santos (we just can not convince ourselves to see why). In such a situation Veldhoven can use 4-3-3 with Dos Santos playing alongside Del Piero and Junker. Though, we would like to see Skoubo as a forward and Dos Santos as an attacking midfielder or a winger. Del Piero and Junker are class players, van Veldhoven should use them more often.

Day 32 and 34, Match 29 and 31

Two different matches, two different days, two different stadiums but same result. It seems like ISL's second round is all about draws, especially goalless draws.

Courtesy:ISL

Kerala have started to play well and so have Mumbai. Mumbai had a chance to replace Kolkata from the top of the standings but alas, the game was a draw.
Last time when Kolkata and Chennai met, the match ended in a draw as both the teams scored one goal each. The teams have 12 points each. This was Chennai's third game of the week while Kolkata's first. It was a hard fought match but none of the teams could score.

Kerala Blasters (0) - Mumbai City FC (0)

Courtesy:ISL

Amidst heavy rainfall, Kerala met Mumbai. Kerala made some changes in order to cope with Mumbai's newly acquired form. Home players were good with crosses and passes. Mumbai have a confused player and a commanding Keeper in their squad. Both the teams focused on keeping the possession and the guests did not trouble the home team's Keeper at all before the half time whistle. David James's strategy was flexible as he sent in a few strikers in the second half. Kerala had more ball possession and were less off side. Both the teams had equal shots on target and were awarded equal free kicks. Kerala have always played well on the home ground. The game dropped in the middle of the first half. There was lack of efforts in both the teams. It was a dull game and the attack was week.

Atletico de Kolkata (0) - Chennaiyin FC (0)

Courtesy:ISL

Kolkata's star striker has a special preference of not controlling his run and to go off side. Both the teams are strong and it showed as they were able to push each other's defence by drilling in the opposite's half. Brilliant passes by Kolkata.  Kolkata have altruistic players. They do not hold themselves from passing and giving other player chances. Surprisingly enough the game was halted during the first half as the lights went off. Chennai's free kick specialist sweated in front of the Indian Keeper. Kolkata needs to mind their words. They have just survived a long ban on an important player and their head coach. Chennai had more ball possession and shots on target while Kolkata lived up to their name by committing most fouls.

Courtesy:ISL

The match between Kerala and Mumbai was not interesting at all. Both the teams failed to create any breath taking moment. It was a lumpy game and both the teams lost possession fairly quickly. The second match saw the ball swing like a pendulum. The players meant business and created many opportunities. Chennai had a tough and tiring weak but were well able to put up a tough fight with Kolkata.

Courtesy:ISL

Since the start of the tournament, Kolkata has been comfortably sitting on its most preferred position, that is, the top spot. This, however, is not entirely because of the form. They played much better in the first round of the League and truly deserved the spot but now the credit goes to the series of draws that is happening.

We are really tired of the draws now. the managers better come up with something innovating to break the chain.
                                                                         *You can read about match 30 in the next article.

Day 30, Match 28

Courtesy:ISL

FC Pune City vs Chennaiyin FC, Match 28, means that the top place is up for grab. The team that wins will displace Atletico de Kolkata from the conquering position, automatically becoming the table topper. Chennai have displayed commendable performance throughout the League while Pune have just started to show their potential. Pune had an advantage as it was their home game. Both the teams put up a tough fight but none could replace Kolkata as the teams gave us the third consecutive draw of the League.

FC Pune City (1) - Chennaiyin FC (1)

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai started their game by pushing Pune's defence and acquired a corner. Valencia tried to score with his left foot but the Keeper saved the home team. Gurung created an opportunity in the right wing and Katsouranis capitalized it in the home team's favour. Pune gained lead within nine minutes of the game. Chennai was on charge to find an equalizer and in a haphazard manner Elano failed to score from a penalty. This was definitely not expected from a player who is running for the Golden Boot award. Pole saved Pune as Valencia misjudged the shot. Valencia attempted again but Arindham stretched to deny him. Cirillo ran into Valencia to receive a yellow card. Elano, free kick specialist, hit the crossbar. Bracigliano saved Chennai from Kostas' second strike. Lenny suffered because of Elano. Just before the half time, Valencia and Dudu tried to score for their respective teams.

Courtesy:ISL

The second half opened with Valencia's yet another on target attempt. Dhana came to Chennai's rescue when Dudu was trying to ensure his team's victory. Anupam Sarkar for Lenny. Silvestre's great defending. With Balwant's assist, Valencia finally opened Chennai's account. The away team looked confident after scoring the equaliser and tried to increase their goal count even further. Cirillo was relieved by Andre. Both the teams looked unsettled with the score and came up with countless attacks but the game ended with one goal each. 'Hero of the Match' was Valencia.

Courtesy:ISL

Our 'Hero of the Match', for the second time, is John Stiven Mendoza Valencia. The Colombian forward was his team's star player for the night. Numerous on target attempts and the equalizer won the 22 years old player Fittest player's tag as well.

Day 29, Match 26, 27. Draw and Draw!

Two matches in a day and both ended in goalless draws. The first match was the Maharashtran derby between FC Goa and Mumbai City FC while the second match was Kerala Blasters FC vs Delhi Dynamos FC.

Goalless draw can either mean that the teams were too weak or too strong. In this case the opponents matched each other's potential. In both the matches the ball kept on swinging and so did the possession. It is needless to say that the teams performed great, they all tried their best, the keepers were reflexive, set pieces were wasted; only if they had capitalised so and so opportunity. All these things are apparent.

So, in this situation, we are going to refrain ourselves from studying each and every move of all the players and instead give you a general overview of what the teams as a whole did.

Courtesy:ISL

FC Goa- The team has won only one match out of the possible six in spite of having Brazilian legend Zico as there head coach. Despite of the poor performance, Goa has a record for maximum number of shots on target.
Shooting from inside the box is a problem with the team. Zico should work on the basics of the players. Strong passes but fail to capitalize set pieces. Successful headers are a problem even with the international players. Good defence.

Courtesy:ISL

Mumbai City FC- The team has had a mixed season so far. They are definitely stronger than before.
The team indulged in too many illegitimate and unnecessary tackles. They gave away set pieces that could have hurt. Decent passes. The players prefer to go for glory instead of passing the ball. Offside is a problem. Brave goalkeeper. Wayward crosses.

Courtesy:ISL

Kerala Blasters- The team sits on the last place but is full of potential. Good crosses. Indulged in continuous attacks. Forwards wasted way too many chances to be forgiven. The team do not play well for the entire 90 minutes.

Courtesy:ISL

Delhi Dynamos FC- The team has won only one match and lost twice while the rest were draw. Even after having solid strikers, midfielder, defenders and a 6'10'' tall goalie, the team has failed to establish itself in the league.
Strong Centre Back. Forward shot off target even when the ball was shouting to meet the net. Midfield is like magic. Defenders are flexible. tendency to commit fouls. maximum shots on target.

Day 28, Match 25 and another Draw!

Courtesy:ISL

Chennaiyin FC holds second place in the standings while Northeast United FC sits on the third place. A win for either will raise them from their current position. Elano Blumer and Koke both are promising players and were used in the game. When two strong team meet you expect so many things but get a DRAW!

Chennaiyin FC (2) - Northeast United (2)

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Koke started the game with a quick run into the box which was intercepted by the home team. A good one-two game by Elano and Jeje but Capdevila did not allow the players to take any advantage. Rehenesh who was 'Hero of the Match' in the previous game, saved Elano's attempt. At 25', the Brazilian goal machine, Elano Blumer, did it once again. Materazzi's attacking midfielder turned Denson's pass into a goal, giving the home team a lead. Len tried to equalize the score but Chennai's favourite Mendy threw him in the way and saved the team. Len, however, was adamant to score and cancelled Elano's goal by netting at 38'. Two minutes injury time saw both the teams trying hard but no goal was conceded.

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The crowd was anxious about the second half and the teams did give them a delightful game. Denson provided a ball to Jeje but the defender cleared it. Koke took the free kick and passed it to Felipe who shot above the crossbar. Rehenesh saved Northeast again by stopping Elano's just outside-the-box kick. Northeast's scorer Len made way for Alen. Jean-Eudes Maurice substituted Valencia and Balwant came in for Jeje. Materrazi substituted himself for Djordjic. Balwant collided with Rehenesh, bringing the Keeper down. The away team could not do much with the free kick. Keene was replaced by the young Korean, Do. Elano did it again. This time his goal was pure beauty, beyond explanation. The way he cut pass the defenders. Unbelievable! He now has 8 goals in 6 games. Northeast's final substitute was Boithang for Milan. Elano was booked for his tackle on Felipe. The referee gave two more yellows for the same incident to Felipe and Khongjee because of the heated argument. Koke levelled the game again. Khongjee brought the ball inside the box which the defender failed to clear. Koke took advantage of the situation to cancel Elano's second goal of the night. During three minutes of the stoppage time. it was the away team that tried harder to find the lead.

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'Hero of the Match' was Elano Blumer. Well, this time we are not choosing any 'Player of the Match'. Reason- It was such an interesting match with all the players using their full potential to win the game. The ball kept on running from goal post to goal post. Each player is player of the match and we would like to thank them for such an interesting match.   

Day 25, 26, 27, Match 22, 23, 24..

Due to some severe technical faults which we can not reveal (power cut, system crashed and weak connectivity...Uh!), we have not been able to post regularly. The following article contains everything that you have missed because of us and will bring you right on track.

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• Delhi has played 6 matches in the season out of which they won one, lost one and the rest were draws. Similarly, Mumbai stepped on the turf 5 times as well with 2 wins while the rest were defeats.
• Teams at the bottom of the table met as Kerala invited Goa for their first home match. Pires comeback game after the ban.
• Pune welcomed Jermaine Pennant. return of Fikru and Habas from ban.

Mumbai City FC (1) -  Delhi Dynamos FC (0)

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With Del Piero on bench (yet again) and Mumbai's Frenchman, Anelka, on field, the stars of the visitors already looked weak. Delhi lost the previous match due to lack of possession but this wasn't the story this time. With the Kick Off, Mumbai had to face an early substitution of their captain, Nabi, due to an injury that we believe could have been well avoided. Shouvik made a strong challenge on Stohanzl who later on attempted to score from the half line but the ball went off target. Paul, with a commendable dive, saved the home team from Shouvik's curling ball. With Santos and Junker upfront, Delhi broke into a counter attack but failed to scored. There were some good attempts from Steven, Junker, Anelka and Moritz but the score remained 0 for all at the end of the first half. In the second half, the over ambitious Peter preferred to take the chance himself when Anelka and Moritz were right in front of him. Moritz got booked for revolting against referee's decision by throwing the ball on ground. The visitors too received a card as Aries tackled Anelka. Subhash broke into a counter attack and delivered a perfect pass to Anelka which the forward converted into a goal. Here we have to say that this was the most beautiful pass of the League so far! Piero came in for Junker at 62'. Del Piero took the free kick that Paul saved. The game ended with Mumbai's home win and Delhi's second continuous loss.


Kerala Blasters FC (1) - FC Goa (0)

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The game started with both the teams into attacking zone. Midfield and defence of  both the teams looked creative. However, as the game progressed the Goan side grew stronger by creating better chances. Pinheiro twice put in beautiful ball which Gregory missed. Zico's men dominated the game for almost 30' but after Debarata gave away a free kick to the home team for his tackle on Shaumik, Pires' side started to loose possession. After a mediocre free kick by Orji, Kerala started to play with the Goan defence. Although the half time ended in none's favour, Kerala's newly acquired form gave home to the fans for some magic in the second half. The half time started with Gregory shooting over the crossbar for the third time. Jhingan received a yellow card for punching into Narayan's chest. Pinheiro took the free kick but missed by the minutest margin. Milagres stepped in for Sabeeth and Barisic came for Romey. Orji cut past a defender and cut in a great cross to Barisic. The substituted passed the ball to another substitute, Milagres, who wasted no time to score goal to give the home team a lead. After the goal, the home team dominated the rest of the game.

Atletico de Kolkata (1) - FC Pune City (3)

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Attacking Kolkata and sloppy defence of Pune started the first half of the game. Fikru missed an opportunity provided to him by the captain in the starting minutes. He wasted another chance when Nato brought the ball to him. Pritam got booked for challenging Lobo. Josemi seemed to struggle possibly because of an earlier picked up injury. His tackle on Dudu worsened the situation. Second yellow of the game went to Nato for his tackle on Katsouranis. While Josemi was getting treatment, Davide and Dudu gave Kolkata a shock. Davide's more than perfect cross helped Dudu to shoot the ball into the net. The away team that looked weak had the lead now. The away team looked pretty confident after their goal in the second half.  Just after 10 minutes of the other half, Katsouranis came with a brilliant stroke that Roy couldn't even move to stop it. Katsouranis' goal gave trouble to the Keeper and the team! Pune's defence raised itself. Gurung was booked for not letting Garcia take the free kick. Josemi received a yellow. Kolkata's captain was substituted for their super sub Pody. Fikru took the penalty shot after he was brought down by Arindham. His shot gave hope to the crowd for at least a draw.  Rafi for Nato. Habas was keen for goals. Davide finally sealed the deal for Pune with his 89' free kick.

Pune is improving well in terms of performance. Colomba studies the situation and makes plan for the second half. Kerala is on the right track but cricketer Kohli's team is lacking. Zico needs to adopt a stronger strategy if he wants his team to rise from the last place. Kolkata disappointed us again. Maximum number of fouls and least number of goals. Although Habas proudly iterated  in the post match conference that he is not disappointed by the loss (Oh! Habas we're disappointed in you.), we believe this first loss will help Kolkata to think about their play. As for Delhi, Veldhoven has numerous forwards. He can try a different formation. Also, he can think about using Santos as a winger rather than a forward. the only thing that we still can not grasp is why a player like Del Piero sits on bench??

Day 24, Match 21. 20 Players, EQUALITY!!

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Jawaharlal Stadium, Chennai, became the battle ground for top scorers of the League, Chennaiyin FC and Atletico de Kolkata. Kolkata has been reigning in the League since the beginning and Chennai has Elano Blumer, ISL's high scorer so far. The excitement for the kick off was beyond explanation as the entire country wanted to see the clash of these Titans. The match had anomalous turns and twists. This has been the most exhilarating draw of the league so far.

Chennaiyin FC (1) - Atletico de Kolkata (1)

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Frenchman Jean-Eudes Maurice made his debut as a Valencia's partner for Chennaiyin FC. With Fikru and Habas serving their term of punishment, Antonia Lopez had added responsibility to drive the team forward. A few set pieces for both the teams in the inceptive time of the game. The real fun began post 9 minutes of the beginning. The game was really fast as the teams now settled on the turf. Rafi was pushed by Silvester and he went flying off the field. Mendoza's pass was intercepted by Kolkata. The guests were more defensive in the play and couldn't choreograph counter attacks as a number of players were usually seen near their penalty area. Jofre tried to stop Elano by virtue of which both the players were down on the field. Jofre was booked and Blumer got a free kick just 27.60 m away from the goal post which didn't turn out to be as expected.

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32 minutes on the clock, Shilton came charging towards Rafi and brought the striker down on the ground. The Chennaiyin Keeper was immediately shown a red that completely changed the home team's strategy who were previously daunting. Materazzi had to to replace his keeper with a forward in a situation where it was fundamental to score. Garcia, as a result of the event, scored his first ISL goal by taking the penalty from his left foot. Mendoza went from centre half to right wing, Mendy cut past 4 defenders and Elano attempted a curling free kick, but the home team couldn't find an equalizer before the half time.

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With the start of the second half  Jofre got booked for diving, merging a second yellow with the first one to make it a red. Both the teams now had 10 players each. Equality again! Chennai played a defensive game when the scoreboard was calling for attacks. Garcia took a long shot and missed when Rafi was standing right in front of the goal post. The captain made the same mistake with his two touch play, trying to score on his own. Bernard Mendy was driving the team, always ready for danger. Elano waste yet another free kick. Both the teams looked exhausted with reduced number of players and had 50% ball possession. Equality yet again! With Rafi's replacement for Pradhan, Kolkata changed its strategy. They started to play slow and defensive to save energy and to keep the home team from scoring. Khabra went for glory instead of pass. Mendy did a precise tackle on Sahni and saved the team. Materazzi left for Jeje. Balwant substituted Denson and made an impact fairly quickly.

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Kingshuk brought Valencia down during the injury time, giving away a penalty to Chennai. Elano converted the penalty into a goal establishing final Equality. 'Hero of the Match' was Luis Garcia.

As much as we were amused by Kolkata in the beginning of the league, we have started to question its credibility. The have the lowest pass percentage and maximum numbers of fouls. They lack sportsmanship as they are often involved in illegitimate tackles. Their manager is always animated, shouting on the referee. Kolkata now needs to work on to have a better standing in their fans' hearts.

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Our Player of the Match is the Frenchman, Bernard Mendy. His pace and moves swept our hearts away. He was always on the move and created many opportunities for the team.                                                                                    

Day 23, Match 20

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It was FC Pune City vs Northeast United FC. Pune, the home team, won its maiden match against FC Goa while Northeast United has been a strong team throughout the League. With Herbert's decision of playing both the Spaniards, Koke and Capdevila, Pune's stars looked a little weak. However, beating all odds, Pune picked up another three points as Goossens proved to be true to his statement given before their previous match insisting on the importance of winning home games.

FC Pune City (1) - Northeast United (0) 

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During the first half, none of the teams looked any less than the other. Ball could easily reach the box but the dead lock could not be broken. Do's good run which was cleared by Anupam Sarkar, fetched Northeast United a corner but Adinga couldn't turn it into an advantage. Another good opportunity was taken away from the guests as Koke's free kick was stopped by the defence. Pune's midfielder Katsouranis tried to chip in the ball to give the home team some respite but in order to avoid the keeper he shot way above the goal post. Rehenesh saved Northeast from Gurung's strike. Katsourani's pass to Trezeguet, who happened to be in the box, was blocked by Robin. The Northeastern left back who saved his team, gave away a good opportunity by going off side. Selfish Lenny ended up nowhere with his strike. Sarkar's foul on Mtonga in the dying minutes of the first half gave the guest team a free kick but Koke again failed to make it an advantage for the team just before the half time whistle.

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After a thrilling first half, the fans were hoping for a series of raining goals. Their hopes and reality was hundred-to-one as only one goal came from the home team. Adinga blocked Lenny's cross inside the box. Capdevila finally came into action as he used full force to deny the striker. Rehenesh followed Capdevila's attitude to interrupt Gurung's inside the box pass. Goossens came in for Bolado. Keene and Milan for Do and Durga. Dudu substituted Trezeguet. Herbert's final substitution was to replace Felipe for Padilla. After three great chances created by Goossens, an 88' goal ultimately came for the home team. Northeast tried hard to find an equalizer in the injury time but failed miserably.

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Rehenesh TP, we couldn't agree more with the judges. The keeper truly deserves the honour to be 'The Man of the Match' as well as 'Hero of the Match'. The 21 years old young Indian goalie stood up when the Northeastern defence failed. His moves were brilliant. He has a good sense of judging the opposite player and his save against Gurung's strike was brilliant.