ISL 2019-20: Odisha FC 0-0 ATK | 3 reasons why ATK shared points with Odisha FC
After an enthralling restart, the Indian Super League shifted to Pune as Odisha played out a goalless draw against ATK, at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex Stadium
ATK, carrying a three-match win streak, was clear favourites before kick-off in Pune. However, Odisha FC was well prepared and took Antonio Lopez Habas' side by surprise. ATK were left chasing the ball as the home side enjoyed the larger share of possession in the first half. The Kolkata side missed their attacking prowess during the period and the match remained goalless at half-time.
After the break, the visitors put in an improved performance, but couldn't get past the keeper. Habaz' attacking substitutions of Jobby Justin and Edu Garcia did not reward him with the goal. On the other hand, Josep Gombau continued attacking through his wingers on both sides. The team made an impressive outing, perfectly implementing the gaffer's 'build from the back' strategy. However, Odisha too would regret the two points they dropped after dictating the tempo of the game.
Now, we take a look at three reasons why the contest ended in a goalless draw.
#3 ATK clueless in attack
Antonio Lopez Habas' side had scored a total of ten goals from four matches before this fixture. They had three players with three goals each in the likes of Roy Krishna, David Williams and Edu Garcia. However, ATK were absolutely clueless at the attacking third for a major part of the game.
The routine combination between David Williams and Roy Krishna was missing, and the player at the finishing point usually fluffed his line. ATK had a golden opportunity when David Williams plotted a dangerous cross to Roy Krishan inside the box. But, the former Wellington Phoenix striker failed to connect the ball and get past the Odisha custodian.
Javier Hernandez, who had a good day at the midfield, too did not enjoy his time at the attacking end. The Spanish player was set up by Roy Krishna from a counter-attack, only to be saved by Arshdeep Singh.
The manager tried his luck in the second half by introducing Jobby Justin and Edu Garcia. Though the side improved their performance after the break, ATK lacked the power to break the deadlock.