Mohun Bagan SG clinched their fifteenth win of the ongoing Indian Super League with a 3-0 victory over Kerala Blasters FC at their home turf, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, tonight. With this win, Mohun Bagan SG reached 49 points with three matches remaining, just one step away from a record-breaking points total in a single season. Meanwhile, it has become more complicated for the Yellow Army to secure a spot in the top six, as they remain in 8th place with 24 points from 20 matches.
Throughout the match, Kerala Blasters FC held the majority of ball possession but failed to create any real threat for Mohun Bagan SG’s defense and couldn’t test the league’s top clean sheet holder, Vishal Kaith. Two strikes from Maclaren in the first half and a goal from Alberto in the second half secured all three points for the defending League Shield champions.
In the 28th minute, from Subhasish Bose’s through ball down the left flank, Liston showcased his individual brilliance, cutting past two defenders, entering the box, and playing a precise cut-back to Maclaren, who placed it into the top of the net. In the 40th minute, with just three touches, they doubled their lead. Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith launched a long ball, which Apuia headed down to Cummins. Cummins then played a pass to Maclaren, who chipped the ball over the out-of-position KBFC keeper.
In the 45+1st minute, Maclaren found his triple, but it was ruled out due to offside. Kerala Blasters controlled 63% of possession and attempted 10 shots, with only two on target, but ended the first half without touching the net.
From the start of the second half, Kerala Blasters FC dominated possession but failed to create any real threats as Mohun Bagan’s defense stood strong. In the 67th minute, Mohun Bagan SG earned a free-kick on the right. Cummins took the shot, which deflected off the wall. The rebound fell to Deepak Tangri, who sent the ball to in to the left side of the box for Alberto. Alberto unleashed a powerful shot on target, making it 3-0 for the Mariners.
In the 75th minute, from substitute Vibin, Korou received the ball and attempted a long-range shot, but it sailed high over the crossbar. In the second half, Kerala Blasters created four more chances, but none were on target. With this result, Mohun Bagan SG registered their fifth consecutive clean sheet in their last five matches.
From tonight’s fixtures Maclaren was named Player of the Match after an outstanding performance, completing 11 of his 12 attempted passes, delivering a cross, and netting a brace.
NEXT FIXTURES: Kerala Blasters FC have their next away game against FC Goa, on February 22. Mohun Bagan SG will host Odisha FC, on February 23.
Watch highlights Kerala Blasters FC vs Mohun Bagan SG
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