I-League 2018-19: Indian Arrows 1-0 Shillong Lajong - 5 Talking Points

#4 Indian Arrows exploited Shillong on the wings

Aniket Jadhav tries to keep the ball in from going out of play

Shillong Lajong's focus on the centre of the pitch devoided them of men in the wings and the Indian Arrows capitalized on it. Boris Singh and debutant Aimol exploited the right wing whereas Ashish Rai and Aniket Jadhav took charge of the left side. KP Rahul, rather than being the central striker to slot the ball home, helped the players attacking down the wings.

The plan bore fruits as early as the 11th minute. Amarjit spotted Rahul's run and released him down the right wing. The Keralite's intended pass was cut out by Novin Gurung but failed to clear it properly. Ashish Rai pounced on the loose ball and curled it in the back of the net.

This is a good strategy given that they don't have a striker who can cause havoc in the centre. However, this could haunt them later in the league.