FC Goa 2-1 Kerala Blasters - 5 Talking Points

Kerala Blasters’ poor start to the season continued with a 2-1 away defeat to an FC Goa team, who were fortunate to sneak all 3 points on Thursday night. The win sends FC Goa to the top of the standings with 10 points, one clear of FC Pune City.Pune do have a game in hand but FC Goa’s form is worth noting even if their last 2 games have been narrow comeback wins. They seem to be doing some things right while getting others woefully wrong, but coach Zico will hope he can plug all the holes before the next game.Kerala, on the other hand, have been hot and cold, impressing in some games while putting in drab performances in others. Today was not their day, despite taking an early lead. Here are the major talking points from match number 18 of Hero Indian Super League at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa. All images in the slideshow are courtesy of the ISL.

#1 Frustration for Kerala Blasters

Peter Taylor, who is without a win in 4 successive games now, had to endure another frustrating afternoon, this time courtesy of FC Goa. Kerala Blasters did everything right and outplayed FC Goa for majority the of the game. Mohammed Rafi’s initial goal seemed to have got them up and running, but two goals that came totally against the run of play turned the game on its head in favour of the Goans.

Kerala Blasters dominated the game in all areas of the pitch but could not translate all their hard work into goals. It was all yellow at Fatorda right until the stroke of half-time when FC Goa midfielder Leo Moura produced a sublime effort to pull them level. Kerala kept at their good work in the second half but went down to a headed winner from defender Gregory Arnolin.

Sandesh Jhingan, C.K Vineeth and Sanchez all came close to equalising for Kerala, but could only end up mounting pressure on under-fire coach, Peter Taylor. His players will have to put on their goal scoring boots in order to fix the current crisis at goalmouth.