Introduction:
ATK Mohun Bagan goes into the game, being second on the table, only on Goal Difference. Whilst Jamshedpur FC are yet to register their first win of the season. A win against the defending champions would give Owen Coyle a sigh of relief, as he wishes to take the revenge of last season while having a stint with the Chennai based franchise. While a win for ATKMB would see them go three points clear, to the top. However, Jamshedpur wins the game 2-1, with a brace from their star man Valskis. While ATKMB gets a lucky goal, due to a refereeing howler.
Line Ups
Jamshedpur FC (4-4-2)
Goalkeeper: TP Rehenesh
Defenders: Renthlei, Eze, Hartley, Ricky
Midfielders: Mobashir, Monroy, Alex (Jeetu Singh – 61’), Jacki (Issac – 82’)
Forwards: William (Aniket – 90+1’), Valskis
ATK MOHUN BAGAN (3-5-2)
Goalkeeper: Arindam
Defenders: Kotal, TIri (Sumit – 81’), Sandesh
Midfielders: Das, Inman (Jayesh – 82’), McHugh (SK Sahil – 72’), Martins (Manvir – 61’), Bose
Forwards: Edu, Krishna
First Half
ATKMB started the game in an unexpected fashion. Jamshedpur looked at the dominating side. Although the ball was shared among the teams equally, Jamshedpur looked more threatening. Javi Hernandez’s absence was felt. As the chances seemed to have waved off an “adieu” to the team from Kolkata. The visitors could have conceded a couple of minutes earlier. Had it not been for the 28’, off the line clearance by Kotal. Deadlock is broken by Valskis at the half-hour mark. A bullet header, after a series of three consecutive corners. All-out attack by Jamshedpur, as Arindam makes a vital save to not let his defense down. Meanwhile, Roy Krishna hasn’t got a chance in the first half at all. ATKMB has had a couple of half-chances, leaving it easy for the Jamshedpur custodian.
Second Half
Two good chances early in the second half. Prabir Das is seen in the middle third more often, and so is Bose. Subhasish whoops in a cross, Krishna, trying one of his typical moves. But, doesn’t get contact. That’s the night it was for the 3-time ISL Champions. Glan Martins shot from distance once again, kept it fizzing low. Tested Rehenesh, after it took a deflection from Hartley. He was the busier of the keepers, in the second half. LB Ricky had to deal with the menacing runs of Roy Krishna, who seemed to be more active. 65’. A good freekick by Valskis, an equally good dive from the keeper, leading to a corner. The corner, sees ATKMB go 2-0 down at 66’. Class of delivery from Monroy. Flicked by Rahman on the near post, deflects Bose’s arm, and there is Valskis!
On to the end of things, standing unmarked. Manvir Singh’s introduction caused menace for Jamshedpur’s defense, as his fresh legs started to knock on the doors of the backline. Series of great attacks by the losing team. Eventually getting an undeserved goal at 80’. A clear offside not given by the linesman, and let’s just not talk much about the referee standards. ATKMB seemed to have found the rhythm they needed, but it proved to be just too late.
Conclusion
ATKMB remain second on the table, losing the game in hand. As for Jamshedpur, the miners climb to the 7th position, with 5 points in 4 matches. Javi Hernandez and David Williams will surely bolster the attacking returns for ATKMB. Jamshedpur will look to build on the momentum, as they face SCEB next. ATKMB has Hyderabad FC as their next opponents, who are on an unbeaten run. It is going to be a long and exciting season for all the teams, but let’s see if Jamshedpur gets to their first-ever playoff spot, and if, ATKMB can defend the title!!
