In a match that looked almost one-sided, Chennaiyin FC were held to a 0-0 draw by a struggling SC East Bengal. Tilak Maidan witnessed a frustrated Chennaiyin side dominate the game with a host of chances while failing to convert any.
This was only the second game that ended in a goalless draw. Having been in control, the 2-time champions will be vexed upon failing to get 3 points. Chennaiyin FC came to scoring on multiple occasions, but the East Bengal keeper Suvam Sen and the defense stood firm to maintain a stalemate.
The Red & Gold Brigade did have their fair share of chances to bag a goal or two. Nonetheless, neither team could breach the opposing side’s backline and had to settle for a point each.
CFC claim top spot in the ISL table with 7 points from 3 games. Meanwhile, East Bengal sit in the 9th position with just 2 points from 4 matches.
Chennaiyin FC: Player Ratings
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Coach: Božidar Bandović
Goalkeeper: V. Kaith (6.5/10)
Defenders: R. Singh (7/10), S. Damjanovic (7/10), N. Das (7/10), J. Lalrinzuala (6.5/10)
Midfielders: A. Borysiuk (6.5/10), A. Borysiuk (6/10), L. Chhangte (7/10), V. Koman (7/10), M. Murzaev (6/10)
Forwards: R. Ali (6.5/10)
Substitutes: L. Gikieicz (5/10), J. Justin (5/10)
SC East Bengal: Player Ratings
Formation: 4-4-1-1
Coach: Manolo Diaz
Goalkeeper: S. Sen (7/10)
Defenders: D. Gomes (5/10), T. Mrcela (7/10), J. Lourenco (5/10), H. Mondal (7.5/10)
Midfielders: A. S. Kiyam (6/10), A. Dervisevic (7.5/10), Md. Rafique (6/10), N. M. Singh (6/10)
Forwards: D. Sidoel (6.5/10), D. Chukwu (7.5/10)
Substitutes: A. Khan (6/10), R. Gaikwad (5/10), A. Perosevic (7.5/10), B. Jairu (5/10), S. Das – (4.5/10)
PLAYER OF THE MATCH
Putting up yet another stunning performance was Hira Mondal. He really was the best defender of the match. Operating at left-back, the 25-year-old combined brilliantly with Naorem Mahesh.
Whilst aiding in attack, he did very well to keep Lallianzuala Chhangte quiet the entire game. Making a darting run forward, Mondal was able to dink in a cross which was unfortunately nodded wide by Antonio Perosevic.
Tracking back, he stepped up to make vital tackles and timely clearances. Well-deserved, he was named the Hero of the Match.
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