ATK 3 (3) -1 (2) Bengaluru FC: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis as ATK book final berth | ISL 2019-20

#3 Arindam Bhattacharya redeems himself majestically

Arindam redeemed himself brilliantly (Image: ISL)

A week ago, Bengaluru FC got the better of ATK by the barest of slim margins. On that evening, the defending champions triumphed courtesy a defensive blunder with Arindam Bhattacharya’s mistake handing them a crucial first-leg advantage.

Thus, there was palpable criticism regarding the keeper’s form, considering he was also at fault for a couple of goals against Chennaiyin FC, a few days prior. And, that trend seemed to continue when the Indian allowed Ashique’s shot to squirm under him in the first half.

However, he swatted aside those notions in the second period as he produced a string of impressive saves to stave off BFC’s barrage and ensure that his side continued their pursuit of a 3rd ISL crown.

In the 78th minute, Arindam found himself eyeball to eyeball with Kevaughn Frater, who had been released into acres of space by Wangjam. The Jamaican brought the ball down and bore down on goal. At that juncture though, the Indian shot stopper pulled off a vital save to keep Bengaluru at bay.

Minutes later, Arindam portrayed exemplary reflexes to parry John Johnson’s deflected header.

As the referee blew the final whistle, the keeper ended with five saves, three catches and one punch. More importantly though, he had risen to the occasion when it demanded and, in the process, had redeemed himself after being culpable of gifting Bengaluru goals, earlier in the tie.