TG Purushothaman outlines positives from Kerala Blasters' campaign following elimination from playoffs

TG Purushothaman’s Kerala Blasters sit at the ninth spot in the ISL table 2024-25.

TG Purushothaman’s Kerala Blasters had their last chance for an Indian Super League (ISL) playoff spot dashed by yet another dramatic last-minute equalizer from Jamshedpur FC. Despite dominating most of the game and taking the lead through a spectacular goal from young Korou Singh Thingujam, the Blasters couldn’t hold on, conceding a late goal that sealed their fate.

The result not only confirmed their exit from the playoff race but also marked a disappointing conclusion to their first post-Ivan season, a season filled with inconsistency, injuries, and missed opportunities.

A Season of Struggles

Starting the match with minimal playoff hopes, Kerala Blasters showed intent and hunger. Although their cause was not helped by the absence of foreign key players like Jesús Jiménez and Noah Sadaoui, they kept hammering at their chances, taking a hold of the game through the pressing of the young Indian core — Korou Singh Thingujam, Yoihenba Meitei, Vibin Mohanan, and Mohammed Aimen but were only able to do that to an extent for the victory that they so needed.

Another frustrating season for the loyal fanbase and the die-hard Manjappada. The wait for an ISL title continues, and the burden of yet another disappointing campaign is starting to weigh down on their shoulders.

The Silver Lining: Young Stars Shine

Kerala Blasters controlled the game, created chances, and even had a second goal chance disallowed, but the one costly mistake eventually drew two points from their hands. TG Purushothaman expressed his disappointment while looking at the bigger picture.

“What I want to tell these young Indian players is that we have to deal with the referee’s decisions. They always seem to go against us. That’s the most important thing. We are doing our best to bring youngsters into the game, into the ISL, and eventually to the national team.”

The Blasters have been inconsistent throughout the season, and despite flashes of brilliance from young players, defensive frailties and missed opportunities have been their downfall.

What’s Next for Kerala Blasters?

With their playoff hopes now officially over, the focus should turn to finishing positively and granting more time for young players. TG Purushothaman has clarified that the same approach remains, “Go out there, give 100% for the team, and win. That’s it.”

While this season has been another bitter pill for fans to swallow, the emergence of young talents like Korou, Meitei, Vibin, and Aimen offers a silver lining. If Kerala Blasters can build on this youth development strategy and strengthen their squad wisely, they may finally break their title drought in the coming seasons.

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