ISL: NorthEast United FC 1-0 Kerala Blasters FC - 5 talking points

NorthEast United members all smiles after winning their opening encounterAfter a successful season opener in Kolkata, all eyes were shifted to Guwahati, expecting a similar display of quality football from both NorthEast United FC and Kerala Blasters FC. Witnessed by a packed Indira Gandhi Athletic stadium including their owner John Abraham, the local boys edged past the Blasters 1-0 in a very tight encounter which was end to end and saw many opportunities being created by both sides. The all important goal was scored by the Spaniard Koke in first half injury time.Here we look at the five major talking points from the match:

#1 Alexandros Tzorvas had a blinder

The NorthEast United goalkeeper Alexandros Tzorvas was unbeatable in between the posts which won him the Hero of the Match award. The former Greek International helped his side score maximum points with a match winning performance, as he thwarted wave after wave of Kerala’s attacks. Blasters who attempted more shots on goal compared to the NorthEast, just could not find a way past him.

Tzorvas fed off of the energy of the crowd, and was constantly talking to his defense, making sure he let them know how they should position themselves and how to play the situation. His handling was perfect throughout the match, and aoart from one bad miskick which landed straight at Chopra’s feet, he was in command of his area and his distribution.

A very tight encounter which could have gone either way, went the home side’s way, thanks to a glittering display from the goalkeeper. It proved to be the difference that helped NorthEast United clinch their opener in style in front of a capacity crowd of 30,000.