ISL: NorthEast United FC ends ISL campaign with a 1-1 draw at home against Mumbai City FC
NorthEast United FC hold Mumbai City FC 1-1 to finish at the bottom of the league table. The hosts took the lead from Koke’s penalty goal in the first half. The visitors restored parity with Sushil Kumar Singh’s in the dying moments of the match. Both the teams wasted series of opportunities.
The last game of the group stage of Hero Indian Super League featured hosts NorthEast United FC and Mumbai City FC. The game was inconsequential as the semi finalists were already decided. Both the teams started the game on a positive note.
NorthEast United dominated the initial proceedings. Peter Reid made two changes in his winning combination, introducing Sushil Kumar Singh and Raju Gaikwad in place of Nicolas Anelka and Syed Rahim Nabi. The Indian strikers never looked intimidating in front of the goal. Ricki Herbert on the other hand brought in Koke in the starting lineup which increased the flair in their attack force.
In the 33rd minute Tomas Josl made a superb run down the left flank. He entered the penalty box but was brought down by Deepak Mondal. Penalty was awarded and Koke converted from the spot. Minutes later Durga Boro got a golden opportunity to increase their lead, but missed it.
Mumbai refuse to finish ISL as the last-placed team
Peter Reid surprisingly replaced Subrata Pal in the beginning of the second half and gave Portuguese goalkeeper his maiden appearance in the Indian Super League. Mumbai City FC looked more positive in the second half with a genuine intent to restore parity.
In the 65th minute Abhishek Yadav got a very good opportunity but Rehenesh TP as usual brilliant under the woodwork. He pulled off yet another fantastic save. Mumbai City FC finally equalized through Sushil Kumar Singh’s header in the 84th minute.
The final moments of the match turned out to be the most exciting part of the game as Nadong Bhutia and Massamba Lou Samba missed two sitters each on either side.
The final match of the group stages turned out to be an exciting encounter. A total of 121 goals were scored. NorthEast United FC ended their campaign with 15 points and finished at the rock bottom of the league table. Mumbai City FC finished with 16 points a place above NorthEast.