It was a must win game for FC Pune City as they hosted table toppers Delhi Dynamos. 90 minutes of gripping action resulted in a 7-goal thriller with the home side coming out on top late in the game. This match was easily the most entertaining match of this year’s edition.
There were goals, there were cards and a lot to talk about at the end of the game. Here are the 5 critical talking points of the game.
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#5 Momar Ndoye has the pace to outrun any full back in the tournament
Ndoye has been used as a bit-part player in the tournament but made a start for the Punekars last night. He grabbed the opportunity with both hands as he ran riot on the left channel, and his blistering pace harrowed the Dynamos’ right back Kim Kima.
Unfortunately, due to a lack of options, those runs were rendered fruitless.
The deft touches and sudden change of pace made him stand out amidst the exhibition of attacking football. The ex-Atletico Madrid player added a different perspective to the Pune attack. It remains to be seen if Antonio Lopez Habas makes the Senegalese a permanent member of his starting 11.
#4 Excellent attacking display by both sides
The result might have been in Pune’s favour but it was a thoroughly even contest. This match saw the highest number of goals being scored and broke the previous record of 3-3. Both the sides engaged in quick passing and pacey counter attacks.
It was possibly the best-attacking game of this edition and the scoreline aptly reflected the same, but not all was hunky dory in the defensive department. The nimble footwork from both sets of players made it a riveting experience for the fans.
In spite of the fact that Delhi Dynamos were sitting comfortably at the top, they did not hold back and were always on the lookout to score the first goal. Their efforts were rewarded at the brink of half time, Kean Lewis scoring the first goal of the game.
Quick movements and brisk passing from the visitors cut through the home defence like a hot knife through butter.
#3 Souvik Chakraborty stood out with his firebrand style of total football
The 25-year old right-back had made his name with the Delhi Dynamos at the beginning of the ISL and has since been a permanent member of the team from the capital. A string of consistent, stoical performances have made him the most preferred option at the back.
Initially, the West Bengal lad started out as a central defensive midfielder under the tutelage of Roberto Carlos. Owing to his versatility, Gianluca Zambrotta moved him to the right slot and he has taken to the new position like fish to water.
He is quick and possesses the stamina to track back. Reminiscent of a younger Syed Rahim Nabi, Chakraborty surely has the right skills in his repertoire to establish himself as a leading defender.
#2 Delhi Dynamos did not deserve to concede 4 goals
It was an even-stevens encounter but the manner in which Pune scored 4 past the Dynamos is unlike the team managed by Zambrotta. Shoddy defending from set pieces inflicted the killer blow to the visitors. The coach needs to take a note of these concerns if he wishes to take Delhi to their maiden ISL trophy.
The third goal was a result of a horrible lapse in concentration from the Dynamos defender Ruben Gonzalez. After making a string of excellent saves, Delhi goalkeeper Soram Poirei released the ball which was too strong for the defender to control. A poor touch from Ruben allowed Anibal Zurdo to latch on to the loose ball and thump it past the stranded goalie. The 4th goal was also due to a lack of commitment in the Delhi penalty area.
When the Pune attackers passed around in the Delhi box, the away side just watched the ball and none of them chased down the players. As a result, it was an easy move which saw Lenny Rodriguez finish off the game.
#1 FC Pune City are back in business
Habas’ team have announced their arrival in this season with this remarkable victory. The manager’s campaign was mired with controversies as he had to serve a 4-match ban at the start of the tournament. This win was a shot in the arm for the playoff hopes of FC Pune City.
With 3 points on the night, Pune leapfrogged Atletico de Kolkata and now are in the 4th position. At this stage, it would definitely provide the fillip to the home side to finish the group stage on a high.
The Spanish coach has changed the style of play and has displayed a penchant to play quick, incisive passing and to open up the opposition’s defence. The said policy reaped rich dividends against Delhi Dynamos. With a talented team at Habas’ disposal, FC Pune City would pose a tough challenge for the suitors of a top 4 finish.
