ISL 2015: NorthEast United 1-2 Delhi Dynamos - 5 Talking Points
The Delhi Dynamos have already bettered their performance from last season as they sealed their berth in the semifinals with a 2-1 win over NorthEast United FC in Guwahati. The win takes them to second place in the table as they become the second team after Atletico de Kolkata to book their spot in the last four of this year’s edition of the Indian Super League with two home games in hand.It was the team from the national capital who took the lead in the 30th minute, as Robin Singh lashed the ball past the NEUFC keeper. The lead did not last for long as Seityasen Singh equalized seven minutes later for the Highlanders. In the second half, it was the home team who dominated proceedings but were undone by a gorgeous goal from substitute Gustavo dos Santos.Here are the five talking points
#1 Dynamos\' defense
Even before the ball was kicked, it was confirmed that John Arne Riise did not travel to Assam with the Delhi side, which meant that Chicao slotted in as a centre-back along with Anas Edathodika. The Norwegian has been arguably the best and most consistent performer for the Lions this season and his absence could have had dire consequences for the away team.
As the game began, the defensive situation got worse for the Delhi side as Souvik Chakrabarti, the right full-back, had to be taken off in just the 6th minute after suffering an injury in his right leg following a clash with Diomansy Kamara. This meant that Sehnaj Singh, who had started in the centre of midfield, would have to play as a full-back after Souvik was taken off.
But much to the credit of the Delhi defense, they held on well and survived a few nervy moments to concede just one goal eventually and hold out for all three points. Anas put in a great shift and made some timely tackles to prevent the Highlanders from testing Doblas. Roberto Carlos will surely be pleased with his defenders’ performance as they recovered from a poor showing in Chennai where they lost 4-0 after a calamitous defensive performance.