The Stars
Elano, Mendy and Garcia
Elano Blumer was again a fine performer throughout the game for Chennayin FC. Tackles and challenges were thrown on Elano which won him free-kicks at promising positions. The Brazilian couldn’t create a magic moment with his free-kicks, but in the dying minutes of the game gave the hosts the much needed equalizer through a spot kick.
Bernard Mendy’s happy days in Chennayin FC colors continued. The French centre-back was excellent as usual while defending. Leave behind defending; his forward runs from defense to attack were breathtaking. The former Hull City player provided an attacking flair with the classic runs and left no stone unturned in his entire 90 minutes.
Luis Garcia returned from a hamstring injury after 2 games and was awarded the hero of the match. The Spaniard’s through balls and one touch passes were absolutely clinical for his teammates. He opened the scoring for Atletico de Kolkata with a penalty after Rafi was brought down by keeper Shilton Paul.
The Flops
Kingshuk, Nato and Shilton
Kingshuk Debnath’s blunder helped Chennayin FC earn a valuable point in their home ground in the final minutes of the game. The right-back had lost his brain in the stoppage time and fouled Mendoza in the penalty area. The answer for such a horrendous tackle is still not found as Kingshuk became the spoiler for Kolkata’s celebration.
Ofentse Nato was another Atletico de Kolkata player with a patchy performance. The holding midfielder lost the ball in the centre of the park leaving his side in danger. Nato was a mere contributor for the away side and lost concentration often.
Shilton Paul received a red card for his unnecessary challenge on Kolkata striker Rafi. The Chennayin FC keeper rushed onto the striker and was sent off, awarding the visitors a penalty. Shilton’s decision to charge on Rafi may attract a lot of criticism.
