In a scintillating display of football prowess, Kerala Blasters, currently leading the ISL 2023-24 season, commenced their Kalinga Super Cup campaign with a commanding 3-1 triumph over I-League outfit Shillong Lajong at Kaling Pitch 1 in Bhubaneswar on January 10, Wednesday.
The hero of the game, Kwame Peprah, etched his name in the annals of Kerala Blasters’ history with an early brace that set the stage for an exhilarating encounter. Peprah’s clinical finishing abilities were on full display as he opened the scoring in the 14th minute, capitalizing on a defense-splitting pass from the ever-dangerous Dimitrios Diamantakos.
Just a dozen minutes later, Peprah showcased his aerial prowess, doubling the advantage by chesting in a deflected cross from Prabir Das. The goals left Shillong Lajong in disarray and highlighted the Yellow Army’s attacking prowess.
Nevertheless, the Red Dragons displayed resilience and fought back. In the 28th minute, a penalty was awarded to SL after striker Karim was brought down in the box by Sachin Suresh. Captain Renan Paulinho stepped up confidently, converting from the spot to halve the deficit for the underdog side just before the break.
The second half witnessed an explosive start for the Blasters as Aimen, rising high in the box, connected with Daisuke’s inch-perfect cross from the right flank, delivering a powerful header in the 47th minute. This third goal reasserted Kerala Blasters’ dominance, putting them back in complete control of the proceedings.
Despite the comfortable lead, the Blasters continued to dictate the tempo, with Diamantakos hitting the woodwork from a tight angle. Neitho, in the Lajong goal, managed to save Daisuke’s follow-up effort, preventing further damage. Although the league leaders had several opportunities for additional goals, they were unable to add to their tally, leading to a relatively nervy finish.
Ivan Vukomanovic’s team successfully held on for the 3-1 win, marking a significant stride towards the knockout stages of the KSC. While Peprah’s goals stole the spotlight, it was Sachin Suresh’s resolute goalkeeping, particularly in the final stages, that ensured all three points against a spirited Lajong side.
The victory not only solidified Blasters’ position at the top of the ISL 2023-24 season but also showcased the team’s multifaceted attacking prowess. Peprah’s instant impact and clinical finishing added a new dimension to the Yellow Army’s attacking arsenal, complementing the existing strengths of players like Diamantakos and Aimen.
As the team advances in the KSC, the blend of experienced players and emerging talents under Vukomanovic’s guidance promises an exciting journey for the Kerala Blasters faithful. The team’s ability to weather the storm in the face of a spirited opposition, as seen in the Shillong Lajong clash, exemplifies their resilience and determination to succeed in domestic competitions.
Looking ahead, Blasters will aim to carry this momentum into subsequent fixtures, with eyes firmly set on clinching silverware in both the ISL and the Kalinga Super Cup. The resounding victory against Shillong Lajong serves as a testament to their aspirations and capabilities on the football pitch, leaving fans eager for more stellar performances in the ongoing season.
Kerala Blasters FC Starting XI
Sachin, Prabir, Hormipam, Milos, Naocha, Azhar, Danish, Daisuke, Aimen, Peprah, Dimitrios (C)
Shillong Lajong FC Starting XI
Neitho, Allen, Daniel, Ronney, Kynsai Khongsit, Renan (C), Hame, Kynsai Lhuid, Pursunep, Douglas, Karim
