ISL 2018/19, Kerala Blasters 3-0 Chennaiyin FC: 5 Talking Points - Poplatnik brace ends Kerala's winless streak

#4 Sahal Abdul Samad's dominance overshadows Chennaiyin's midfield

Sahal celebrates after his goal

There was a loud cheer at the consortium when the local lad Sahal Abdul Samad's name was heard once again this season. The 21-year-old midfielder has been one of the best performers for Kerala Blasters this season and did no harm to his reputation by putting in another exemplary performance against the arch-rivals Chennaiyin FC.

He was the best midfielder for the Blasters and ran the show by doing his duty both on the defensive and offensive end. Even though it was a tough task to compete against the likes of Raphael Augusto and Anirudh Thapa, his fine passing and ability to rely on press resistance were the major factors that helped Kerala in attacking the opponents on counter-attack.

For his excellent display, he got rewarded with a goal in the second half. Even though it came off an opponent without his knowledge, Sahal's long bursting run was the reason for a simple tap in from five yards out.