Ratings: Diamantakos powers Kerala Blasters to narrow win over Mohun Bagan

Kerala Blasters have now reached the zenith of the ISL points table.

Coming from two back-to-back losses, a wounded Mohun Bagan Super Giant hosted an in-form Kerala Blasters at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium for their last ISL 2023-24 game of this year.

An awful display of performance in the first half & a series of tries in the second half was not able to save the day for Mohun Bagan. A solo goal from Dimitrios Diamantakos in the ninth minute forced the Mariners to a third successive defeat.

Here are the player ratings from a game which pumped the Tuskers to top spot & made Juan Ferrando hear “go back” chants.

Mohun Bagan (By Rahul Patra)

Vishal Kaith (GK) – 6

Didn’t do much to stop the first goal. Was barely tested as no real threat was observed otherwise. Did save a sure goal in injury time.

Sumit Rathi – 6

Was performing his level best in the initial moments. Was the only decent performer in first half. Was subbed in the 67th minute for Manvir Singh.

Hector Yuste – 5.5

Failed to keep up with his defensive duties when Mohun Bagan conceded the first goal. Tried to improve in the second half.

Asish Rai – 5.5

Pulled a few good crosses and tried to gel up with Hugo Boumous. But was awfully bodied in defense.

Subhasish Bose – 4

The skipper failed to perform by his standards. Errors in passing and clearances cost Mohun Bagan. Made silly, comic errors on numerous instances.

Anirudh Thapa – 4.5

Wasn’t really seen performing in the first half. Was barely visible in any action.

Hugo Boumous – 7.5

Was trying hard to create proper chances with his creative style of play. Was an influential player for Mohun Bagan. Tailored a golden opportunity to Jason Cummings in the start of second half.

Deepak Tangri – 6

Was at fault for the goal conceded. Had minimal impact on the pitch and was booked for an unnecessary foul. Was subbed in the 61st minute.

Kiyan Nassiri – 7

Trying his heart out to create chances for the Mariners, he again proved his selection above the big signings. He was clinical in his performance with a few good runs. Replaced for Suhail Bhat in the 81st minute.

Dimitri Petratos – 6.5

Didn’t really have an impact in the first half. Looked to pour some firepower in the second. Attempted a few shots but in vain.

Jason Cummings – 5.5

Posed minimal threat to the Kerala Blasters defense. Was called back in the 61st minute.

Substitutes

Lalrinliana Hnamte – 5

Didn’t do much to change the fate of the Mariners. Wasted a wonderful scoring chance in the 73rd minute.

Armando Sadiku – 6

Was trying hard to pose a threat since his arrival, but didn’t really succeed.

Manvir Singh – 5

Wasn’t able to justify his entry into the field. Failed to have any serious impact.

Suhail Bhat – N/A

Came in the 81st minute. Couldn’t really do much to fit into Kiyan’s shoes.

Kerala Blasters (By Alen Mathew)

Sachin Suresh – 7.5

Mohan Bagan attackers were unable to challenge him effectively; he maintained a solid performance, securing a clean-sheet.

Pritam Kotal – 7

Made critical tackles and attempted overlaps, but struggled with some mispasses and received a yellow card.

Miloš Drinčić – 7.5

Formed a good partnership with Leskovic, contributed defensively with tackles, and aided the defensive line effectively.

Marco Lešković – 8

Demonstrated outstanding leadership skills, adeptly guiding teammates. Established a strong partnership with Milos, and made crucial tackles and clearances.

Naocha Singh – 7.5

Contributed to both defense and offense by delivering passes to the midfield, demonstrating overlapping skills, securing the defense, and successfully executing long-range shots.

Mohammed Azhar – 8.5

Aided in quick starts and contributed to possession. Played a decent game overall and builded a strong combination with Rahul KP and brother Aimen.

Mohammed Aimen – 9

Played a crucial role, facilitating rapid starts, significantly contributing to possession, and delivering a solid overall performance while forming a strong partnership with Rahul and Azhar.

Danish Farooq – 8.5

Danish Farooq exhibited a lack of confidence, encountered difficulties with several missed passes, and received some defensive assistance.

Rahul KP – 6.5

Formed a strong partnership with the midfield, showcasing excellent chemistry, making noteworthy runs, and taking several shots. However, he missed a few straightforward opportunities.

Dimitrios Diamantakos – 8.5

Played a crucial role in the attack, scoring an incredible goal that helped Kerala Blasters take an early lead. He also showcased his skill with some impressive shots during the game.

Kwame Peprah – 7.5

Demonstrated impressive speed heading towards the box, significantly contributing to the team’s attacking strength. Exhibited excellent ball control, however, faced challenges with shot accuracy during the game.

Substitutes

Sourav Mandal – 6.5

Displayed potential through runs and passes but fell short of making a significant impact. Was seen receiving a yellow card during the match.

Prabir Das – 7

Contributed solidly in a 25-minute stay, making crucial blocks and maintaining a strong defensive presence throughout.

Daisuke Sakai – N/A

Yoihenba Meitei – N/A

Sandeep Singh – N/A

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