ISL 2018-19, Bengaluru FC 3-0 FC Goa: Hits and Flops from the game
Bengaluru FC put forth a statement of intent, aggression and domination against FC Goa, underpinning why they have been on top of the Indian Super League ladder for the larger chunk of the season.
Carles Cuadrat's side entered the game on the back of a couple of disheartening results and without the services of talisman Sunil Chhetri and midfield metronome Erik Paartalu.
Matters worsened as Nishu Kumar was sent off in the first half itself, leaving the hosts with a mountain to climb, especially when Goa's free-flowing, possession-based football was shaping up to some good.
However, big players always step up when needed. They rise to the occasion and take center stage against the best of teams, amid the most difficult circumstances. Yes, look no further than Miku, who steered his side to the top of the table courtesy of a goal and an assist.
Goa claimed majority of the ball in the first half, moved it better and struck the frame of goal as well - one a piece in either half, in fact.
The victory was emphatic, it was heroic, it was splendid, as while BFC recorded their first clean sheet since the 13th of December, the Gaurs shipped three goals; the first time they have conceded in six games.
In the end, Sergio Lobera's side pressed for an equalizer but faltered as chances went begging. In the end, it was just a matter of luck and missed chances, which is not a new essence in football. When it's not your day, it's just not your day.
On that note, let's take a look at five players who endured contrasting fortunes at the Fortress in Bengaluru.
#5 Hit: Rahul Bheke
A rather sound BFC back line maintained an unlikely clean sheet at the Fortress, and no one would bet against the ever-so-reliable Rahul Bheke to miss out from this list.
Yes, his partner fired home a thunderous left-footed volley to break the deadlock, but Bheke ensured no nonsense at the back. He cleared his lines, prevented crosses and defended extremely well by not committing to challenges.
Every time the opposition got free in spaces, Bheke was there to cover up. The versatile defender was safe as a house as he read the situation and pace of the game well and didn't put a foot wrong.