ISL 2017: Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United FC, 5 Talking points

Blasters win at last, but issues persist

Despite the win, Meulensteen's Blasters still have a lot to answer for. (Photo: ISL)

Make no mistake, this was a defensive set up by Meulensteen as he went with Brown as a shielding midfielder.

However, after the goals his side let in against FC Goa, it made sense that he opted for caution over cavalier in this home game as the Blasters needed the points.

While the sending off of Rehenesh was a touch fortunate for the Blasters, it was fortune that they should have capitalised on. However, they didn't make the most of it.

Even against 10 men, the Blasters failed to score again and put the game to bed early. Yes, there was one shot that hit the upright, but that apart there were still those stray passes and inadequate play in the attacking third.

The three points is a huge boost for Meulensteen as it was their first win of the campaign, but it's only a start.