Day 63, Match 57

First match of the first leg of semi finals; clash of the best four. Kerala plays host for the southern derby. It was not only James vs Metarazzi but also Tendulkar vs Dhoni . Elano returned from his injury after a long time but James had to serve his term of ban. Chennai have won all the previous games against the blasters but it was a different story this time.

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

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

Courtesy:ISL

The home team started the proceeding by building pressure on the guests. Ahmed and Chopra made a good start. Jeje received a brilliant ball from Mendy and, despite having ample time and space, sent the ball straight into the keeper's hands. A goal in the opening minutes of the game gives a boost to the scoring team. Jeje missed a golden opportunity. Elano Blumer took a free kick. The free kick specialist and ISL's goal scoring machine, however, failed this time and looked disappointed. Jeje eschewed himself to take a moment to read the ball and instead, headed it straight into the hands of the keeper. The guests lead the attack index for the first period but marginally. McAllister's goal through Hume's corner was declared off side. The exuberant crowd went numb with the decision. Ahmed removed his jersey and was booked (like van Persie). Why? Because he scored! he took a first time right footed shot, beat Bracigliano and scored. The crowd came to life again. Kerala scored their second goal for the evening just after two minutes of the first one. This time it was Kerala's favourite boy, Iain Hume. Ahmed twisted his ankle and had to be attended. Through Silvestre, Chennai tried to open their account but Sandip denied them and the first half was over.

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai had a tough task ahead of them as the second half commenced. Elano was substituted for Pelissari. It was predictable as the Brazilian was struggling in his come back match after an injury. Pelissari stepped into Elano's shoes as he took a free kick following Chopra's hand ball. Mendy put in great efforts but was wide. Another injury for the home team as McAllister hit hard the surface while trying to direct the ball with his head. Barisic for Chopra and Denson for Abhishek. Chennai received a free kick at a dangerous position but Pelissari shot it straight into the keeper's grip. Bracigliano and Hume indulged in a heated argument and the Keeper gave a shoulder push to the forward. Jeje failed to exploit on Sandip's mistake. That was an unguarded post and Jeje missed it. A goal came during the injury time (4 minutes) and was again from the home team. Hume assisted, Sushanth scored and got booked because taking off clothes is not allowed (although we can't see any problem in this way of celebration!). Kerala won by a considerate margin.

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai had more possession but they definitely lacked in all the areas as opposed to their competition, especially defence. Sandip was hit many times but was able to maintain a clean sheet. Barcigliano looked a little distracted . Chennai will have to work really hard if they want to make it to the finals. All the previous wins will take them nowhere. It's a do or die situation for them .