After a disappointing performance in their opening match in the ongoing Hero I-League Qualifiers in Bengaluru, Kerala United FC put on a scintillating performance to secure three points from a thrilling encounter against Corbett FC. On a sunny Thursday afternoon at the Bengaluru Football Stadium, Kerala United dominated proceedings for a 2-0 win. Hafis Alakkaparamba Mohammedali was the first goal scorer for Kerala United in the 41st minute, while substitute Jessen TK Thonikkakara scored the team’s second goal in the 83rd minute, ensuring that his team remained in the race for a knockout berth in the league.
The Arjun Jayaraj-led team was at the top of their game from the start. Although it took some time for both the teams to settle into the game, they picked up the pace after the opening 30 minutes of play. The turning point for Kerala United came in the 41st minute when they played deftly with a clinical and disciplined attack that resulted in a goal. While Corbett FC created some decent chances in the 23rd minute when striker Himanshu Patil set up John Chidi with a cross pass but unfortunately Chidi could not capitalize. However, under the tutelage of experienced head coach Bino George, Kerala United made no such mistake.
It was the brilliance of skipper Arjun Jayaraj, who scored a quick run-in from the middle, assisting Buzair Valiyattu to beat the Corbett FC defenders, who made an excellent decision to find Hafis Alakkaparamba Mohammedali. Hafees hit the target with a strong strike and gave Kerala United the needed 1-0 lead in the 41st minute.
After the half-time mark, Corbett FC got a big chance to equalize in the 78th minute when a fine support from striker Himanshu Patil to Sunil Lohar was brilliantly saved by Kerala goalkeeper Midhun V. New players lament over missed opportunities, wasted by Kerala United. Consolidating your leadership is not the time to push for another goal.
That moment came in the 83rd minute when substitute Jessen TK Thonikara scored a fine goal after Atul Unnikrishnan intercepted Corbett FC’s Sunil in midfield and scored a brilliant goal in the counter attack.
A 2-0 lead in the 83rd minute sealed the match for Kerala United, who went on to defend the target with all their heart. After a disappointment in their first game, where they lost 1–2 to Kenkare FC in a tough encounter, Kerala United head coach George came home with winning points to keep their hopes alive in Pool B. will be happy.
Meanwhile, Corbett FC will need to rework their strategy to make a comeback in the league as they will not be able to win their first two matches in the pool stage.
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