ISL 2019: 10-men FC Goa salvage a point against Kerala Blasters in Kochi

FC Goa came twice from behind to salvage a much needed away point in a 2-2 draw with Kerala Blasters in an Indian Super League tie in Kochi, Kerala on Sunday. Kerala Blasters took the lead through Sergio Cidoncha, only to have it cancelled out by a Mourtada Fall header on the other side. FC Goa were reduced to 10-men in the second-half which allowed Kerala Blasters to take the lead for the second time in the game through Messi Bouli. The home side looked all set to win the game but FC Goa equalised in the additional time through Lenny Rodrigues to steal a point.

Kerala Blasters started the game in an explosive fashion. A defensive header from Mourtada Fall ended up fondly for the Spaniard, outside the box which was driven-in on the target, beyond Nawaz’s reach to make it 1-0. Kerala kept on dominating the proceedings with a number of shots at goal. However, Messi Bouli and Bartholomew Ogbeche could not finish any of the chances in the 1st half. The Gaurs minus Corominas were looking shaky and had a very cautious approach in the game. They clawed back slowly into the game and were rewarded for their persistence through a Mourtada Fall header in the 41st minute. 

FC Goa had a much more positive start in the second-half. However, the Gaurs were dealt a blow when Mourtada Fall was sent-off for bringing down Bartholomew Ogbeche in the 53rd minute. Kerala Blasters took over the game yet again and kept the Goa defence busy with regular goal-mouth action. Kerala Blasters took the lead eventually in the 59th minute when a brilliantly weighted ball from Prashanth found Messi Bouli who found the back of the net with a skewed attempt. FC Goa kept getting back at Kerala and showed immense character. The Kerala defence grew shakier and unstable by the additional time and a mix-up at the back allowed Lenny Rodrigues to score in the 93rd minute off a ricochet courtesy a Rehenesh TP save to end the game 2-2.

Kerala Blasters stay on 8th position while the Gaurs climb to 4th on the table. Kerala Blasters travel to Mumbai City on 5 December. FC Goa travel to Hyderabad on 8 December.