ISL: Chennaiyin FC vs Kerala Blasters - 5 talking points

A typical semi-final complete with flared tempers and last moment dramaSome games are worthy of being dubbed as having ‘everything’, and the fourth edition of the South Indian Derby certainly has everything. A match built around Chennaiyin FC’s failed first leg and a mammoth task at hand, this second leg of the first semi-finals included moments of pure brilliance, talent, skill and ofcourse some theatrics. We take a look at the 5 talking points of the game between Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters.

#1 Defensive mentality gives Kerala a shock

Starting with a 4-1-3-2, which often reverted to a five men defense, whilst committing men behind the ball, Kerala Blasters’s approach to this game was pretty much evident. Enjoying a three goal lead from the first leg of the semi-finals, the Blasters looked to be solid and compact in defense.

Although the Sachin Tendulkar co-owned franchisee, did show signs of fluent attacks, carried mostly by Iain Hume and Michael Chopra, they often lacked the sucker punch of converting chances into goals and in an attempt to safeguard their lead, reverted to ‘men behind the ball’ . This negative approach hurt the Kerala side, and allowed Chennaiyin to resurge back into the game.

#2 Stephen Pearson: Kerala\'s Best Player?

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Stephen Pearson has been one of David James’ loyal soldier. The Irishman has been a standout performer for Kerala Blasters and has captivated audience with amazing work rate. Pearson, once again showcased his abilities to pure perfection as his tireless running on the flanks, often kept out Chennaiyin’s attack.

A sole carrier of Kerala attacks often, Pearson was rewarded with a goal in the dying embers of the added extra time, which also gave Kerala Blasters a safe passage into the finals of the Indian Super League. A stalwart for Kerala Blasters, the robust midfielder has often been used as a utility player and deployed in areas which need an anchor. His performances with the Blasters have been more than noteworthy.

#3 Sandesh Jhinghan Still Unpolished

Sandesh Jhinghan, has arguably the best Indian Player in the Indian Super League, for some fans and critics. The 21 year old who has been instrumental for Kerala Blasters so far, surprisingly dished out an uncanny and rusty performance.

Although, Sandesh has been Kerala stalwart, he disappointed with his performance against Chennaiyin FC. The Indian U-23 player, was often caught in two minds and was haunted by aerial balls. His ability to judge the trajectory of aerial balls has to be improvised upon, as Jhinghan could be easily blamed for Chennaiyin’s first goal.

Sandesh, let Silvestre sideline him and provided Silvestre with a clean header on to goal. The 21 year old, although has been stellar for Kerala, still is an unpolished and unfinished product.

#4 McAllister\'s sending off proves hefty

Havoc wreaked Kerala Blasters, after Jamie McAllister was sent off, following two yellow cards. This sending off proved pivotal to Kerala’s game plan as McAllister was replaced by Romey, to make up for the inferior quantity of men in the defensive area of the game. McAllister’s sending off opened an attacking portal for Chennaiyin FC, who mostly attacked to the space vacated by Romey, McAllister’s replacement. Deployed on the left back, Romey failed to track players back and was often outfoxed by Chennaiyin’s pacey forwards, who kept switching positions. Romey, was often outnumbered on the left flank and this provided Chennaiyin an opportunity to capitalize the supremacy of numbers. The Jeje goal which equalized the deficit at 3-3, was a prime example of this mistake.

#5 Jeje and Maurice lead Chennaiyin\'s attack

The attacking duo of Jeje and Maurice led Chennaiyin’s attack force. Although Materazzi did not start with Jeje’s traditional striker partner Balwant Singh, his decision to start with Maurice, worked wonders.

Deployed in a three men attack alongside Bernard Mendy, Jeje and Maurice proved a thorn in Kerala’s bed of roses. Their tireless running, both on and off the ball, haunted a lethargic Kerala defense. Jeje’s ability to take on players, and beat them with skill was often the sole carrier of Chennaiyin’s attack during some spells, in the game.

Both Jeje and Maurice relied on their mental bonding, and vacated space for each other. This live wire duo successfully revolted against Kerala’s stubborn defense and brought the hosts back into the game.