Following a disappointing start in the Hero I-League Qualifiers, Kerala United cruised to a redeeming win over Corbett FC. Kerala United dominated proceedings to win 2-0.
Hafis Alakkaparamba Mohammedali bagged the first goal 41 minutes in. Substitute Jesin TK Thonikkara rounded it off in the 83rd minute. The win ensures that Kerala remains in the race for a knockout berth in the league.
The team was ably led by Arjun Jayaraj and was on top of their game right from the first whistle. Both teams took a while to settle in, picking up pace after 30 minutes of play. Kerala United broke through in the 41st minute through some clever play with a clinical and disciplined attack.
Kerala United dominate Corbett FC
In the 23rd minute, Corbett FC created a quality chance when striker Himanshu Patil set up John Chidi with a cross pass. Unfortunately, Chidi could not make the most of it. However, with Coach Bino George at the helm, Kerala United made no mistakes.
Skipper Arjun Jayaraj made a brilliant run from the middle, dazzled the Corbett FC defenders to assist Bujair Valiyattu. The forward looked up to find Hafis Alakkaparamba Mohammed Ali. Hafis was on target, his rocket of a hit giving Kerala United a vital 1-0 lead in the 41st minute.
After the break, Corbett FC got an opportunity to equalize. 78 minutes in, Midhun V made an impressive save following a link-up between Himanshu Patil and Sunil Lohar. The newcomers were left ruing a missed opportunity while Kerala were quick to push for another goal.
Athul Unnikrishnan broke up play in midfield, intercepting a ball from Corbett’s Sunil. Unnikrishnan immediately switched to a counter, feeding substitute Jesin TK Thonikkara who was clinical and finished a well-worked goal.
Scoring a second sealed the deal for Kerala United. The side from the South signed off the game with some excellent defending to keep the clean sheet.
Kerala United were off to a disheartening start with a 1-2 loss to Kenkre FC despite a hard-fought encounter. Kerala United head coach Bino George will be a happy man to take home three points to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Corbett remains winless from their opening two matches. They will need to rethink their strategy if they want to fight for a spot in the league.
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