Mahindra United staved off a second-half surge by Air India to emerge 2-1 winners and close in on Dempo at the top after their 15th round I-League clash at the Cooperage on Tuesday.
Coming into this derby with a comprehensive 4-1 win over defending champions Churchill Brothers, Mahindra lacked flow in their game. Nevertheless, they hung on to a slender one-goal lead to prevail over a much-improved Air India side.
With 28 points in kitty, Mahindra are just a point behind leaders Dempo who suffered a shock defeat at Viva Kerala on Monday. Air India, meanwhile, are 11th with 15 points in bag.
Yousuf Ansari’s boys began cautiously and looked listless in the first period. The midfield surrendered to Mahindra on numerous occasions while the defence struggled to contain strikers Muritala Ali and Mohammad Rafi.
The Jeepmen breached Air India defence at will. Making the most of their possession, Mahindra enjoyed a two goal cushion at half-time with winger Steven Dias and Rafi getting their names on the score sheet.
But two inspirational changes in the second half almost turned the script for Air India. Ansari brought in Dada Nabeel for Nigerian striker ND Opara, who didn’t have a good game.
It was as if Nabeel brought good luck for Air India as they reduced the deficit the very next minute through captain Vijith Shetty following a defensive lapse.
Ansari then introduced Soccor Velho for Yusif Ibrahim at the hour mark. With two pair of fresh legs, Air India suddenly looked a different team. There was a lot more pace and cohesion in their moves and Mahindra were found wanting on many occasions.
“It was a struggle, indeed. But we are happy to come away with three important points,” coach David Booth said.
Ansari wasn’t very unhappy either. “I feel Peter Odafe, who was injured yet played, was excellent in the match. I am happy with the way the team played today though we lost. We can now build on this performance.”
Comments