Defending champions ATK and last edition's losing finalists Kerala Blasters played out a dull goalless draw in the opening match of the fourth edition of the Indian Super League yesterday
Defending champions ATK and last edition's losing finalists Kerala Blasters played out a dull goal-less draw in the opening match of the fourth edition of the Indian Super League yesterday. The match between two sides, who have featured in the two summit clashes of the earlier three editions so far, did not rise to any great heights with very few goal-scoring chances. This was the first time that ATK drew their first away match in an ISL edition, having won in the earlier three occasions. Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov made his ISL debut but he could not do much in the whole match.
Kerala Blasters (yellow jerseys) and ATK players head the ball during an ISL Season 4 match at Kochi yesterday. Pic/PTI
Box-to-box affair
The match was a box-to-box affair with very few chances coming in the way of both the sides. ATK had four shots on target while Kerala had two in the entire match. ATK, coached by former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham, dominated the match with more than 60 per cent possession.
ATK in control
They controlled the match for long spells but failed to find the target and create chances. The Yellow Army turned up at full strength at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium here but they must be disappointed with the display of their side. The Kolkata-based side had one real chance in the match but Jose Branco's terrific effort hit the Kerala goal post in the 71st minute. That was the closest to scoring in the match. Kerala next play on 24th, while Kolkata will be in action on November 25th.
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